Discover Hemswell Antiques Centre: A Destination for Design Lovers and Collectors

An Interview with Managing Director Robert Miller.

Nestled in the Lincolnshire countryside, Hemswell Antiques Centre is Europe’s largest antiques destination—offering a unique blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and character that appeals to collectors, interior designers, and those with an eye for timeless design. Once the site of RAF Hemswell, this remarkable location now houses over 400 dealers across four historic buildings, each filled with carefully curated treasures.

From Georgian furniture to vintage glassware, military memorabilia to decorative arts, Hemswell is more than a centre—it’s an experience. We caught up with Managing Director Robert Miller to learn more about the centre’s story, its enduring appeal, and what visitors can expect when they walk through its doors.

*The Guard Room at Hemswell Antiques Centre*

Q1) The centre is set on a former RAF base—how did the transformation from airfield to antiques destination come about?

It all started with my late parents, Rex and Nepi Miller who developed their idea, which then encouraged further ambitious developments of the site to become a tourist attraction including an aviation museum and a craft centre. Similar to the proposal that was made for the now disused RAF Scampton it would be great if the heritage centre idea were to become a reality there. There is a piece about this on our website here:

*Planes over RAF Hemswell – Hampdens in flight over RAF Hemswell*

Q2) What do you think sets Hemswell Antiques Centre apart from other antique destinations?

We are Europe’s largest antique centres and whilst we offer 400 dealers across four buildings there are other antique and reclamation businesses on the same site as us too. What truly distinguishes Hemswell is its dedicated team and dealer community, who bring decades of knowledge and offer tailored advice combined with exemplary customer service. We have two on-site coffee shops, attractive outdoor areas, and a relaxed atmosphere, Hemswell isn’t just a place to shop — it’s a full day out.

Q3) How do you see antiques fitting into modern interiors today?

Antiques are playing an increasingly important role in modern interiors today, offering a rich blend of character, sustainability, and individuality. Many people are choosing good quality second-hand furniture over flat-packed items – even our younger audiences.

19th Century Gilt Mirror – displayed on the wall in The Guard Room at Hemswell.

George III Mahogany Secretaire / Press – the top section had been converted to an illuminated bar from Building 3 at Hemswell.

Q4) What part does Hemswell play in Fairs Week when AS Fairs and IACF host their regular events?

Located just minutes from the Lincolnshire Showground and approximately 40 minutes from Newark Showground, Hemswell becomes a strategic stop for both trade buyers and collectors. Visitors often extend their antiquing journey by exploring Hemswell’s four large buildings, which house over 400 dealers offering a diverse array of antiques and collectables. This proximity allows attendees to maximise their sourcing opportunities during the busy fair period. Known as “Fairs Week”, although the fairs are just 3 x days, this could extend to the weekend before and after the fair dates, particularly with our overseas traders.

Q5) Do you have a favourite piece or find that has come through the centre?

Yes there was a day that a Penny Farthing came into the centres when we were filming our promo videos and I had a go and tried to get on one! I wasn’t quite so good at riding it!

*Robert Bike – Running an Antiques Centre is like riding a bike you never forget to give exemplary customer service!*

*Robert Bike (2) – Finally mounted the Penny Farthing without the aid of a safety net!*

Q6) What makes Hemswell a valuable resource for interior designers sourcing unique pieces for their projects?

We offer inspiration, reliability, and expertise—everything an interior designer needs when sourcing truly original elements for their next project. We also offer virtual tours, which have proved to be a well-received service among our interior design clients or prop buyers for television production teams.

*Antique Gilt Picture Frame – From Building 2 at Hemswell. Beautifully ornate, exactly what the customer wanted for a painting they already had.*

Q7) What advice would you give someone visiting Hemswell for the first time?

Wear good walking shoes and spend more than one day. Take it in the first day and then spend the second day looking for what you want to buy. Photograph tickets of items you might like to go back to – the team will be able to point you in the right direction to find it again based on this information.

Q8) We read about Johnny Depp’s surprise visit to Hemswell – what was this Hollywood legend’s response to Hemswell?

Johnny Depp’s surprise visit to Hemswell Antique Centres in March 2023 left a lasting impression on myself and the staff (particularly the ladies). I can’t think why :) His enthusiasm and the variety of items he selected underscore the centre’s appeal to collectors seeking distinctive pieces with character and history. He was great to talk to and very much appreciated the relaxed atmosphere we were able to offer him to shop in peace without being hounded by public attention. But was very happy to pose for a few selfies with my team who were lucky enough to be on that day.

*Johnny Depp feeling very at home in our Guitar Room in Building 2.*

Address: Caenby Corner Estate, Hemswell Cliff, Gainsborough, Lincolshire DN21 5TJ

Telephone: 01427 666019

Email: enquiries@hemswell-antiques.com

hemswell-antiques.com

We hope our Q&A has inspired you to pay a visit to Hemswell Antiques Centre. If you have found it useful, do check out some of our other recent blog posts here.

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