Adrian “Adi” Higham, a name well known in the world of antiques and British television, has captivated audiences not just with his expertise in the field of antiques but also with his charismatic presence on the popular BBC One show, The Bidding Room. As an antiques dealer, TV personality, and entrepreneur, Adrian’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and perseverance.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Adrian Higham was born in 1969, making him around 56 years old. His love for antiques began at an early age when, in his twenties, he purchased a second-hand bicycle at an auction for just £10 and later sold it for £90. This early experience sparked his interest in finding undervalued items and learning about their history and value. Over the years, Adrian developed a keen eye for antiques, a trait that would serve him well throughout his career.
From a young man buying second-hand goods to a seasoned antiques expert, Adrian’s career path was shaped by his innate curiosity and passion for collecting. His interest grew over time, and he started sourcing vintage and antique items, gaining experience in various auctions, fairs, and antique shops. With decades of experience under his belt, Adrian built a reputation as a skilled and reliable antiques dealer.
The Rise to Fame: The Bidding Room
Adrian’s breakthrough into television came when he was chosen as one of the expert dealers on The Bidding Room, a BBC One daytime show. The show, which first aired in 2020, features members of the public bringing valuable items they want to sell, while a panel of expert dealers, including Adrian, competes to make the best offers based on their expertise and instincts.
Adrian’s charm, expertise, and wit made him a standout star on the show. His approachable and friendly personality quickly endeared him to viewers. On the show, he was known for his straightforward bidding approach and his ability to spot hidden gems. His popularity grew as fans enjoyed his candid approach and insightful commentary on the value of various items.
Adrian Higham Antiques Business
Apart from his television career, Adrian Higham is the owner of an antiques business called Hoof Brocante. The business is based in East Sussex and is situated on an old RAF base near the Romney Marsh area. The shop specializes in French decorative antiques, vintage furniture, and eclectic accessories.
Hoof Brocante has become a go-to destination for antique lovers, offering a wide range of items, from industrial antiques to mechanical objects and vintage curiosities. Adrian, along with his partner Tara Franklin, has made the shop a unique spot for anyone looking for distinctive and well-curated antiques. Tara, his wife, has played a significant role in running the business, and together, they have built a successful brand around their passion for antiques.
The Business Model:
- Specializing in French and eclectic antiques
- Vintage furniture, curios, and mechanical items
- A focus on sourcing items from various European countries
- A thriving online presence and a loyal customer base
The shop’s charming setting, with its history and wide selection of goods, has solidified Adrian and Tara’s reputation in the antiques world. Visitors can expect to find everything from vintage industrial furniture to French country-style antiques, which make for both practical and decorative additions to any home.
Adrian Higham Personal Life
Adrian’s personal life has seen both challenges and successes. He is currently married to Tara Franklin, who is also involved in the running of their business. Tara and Adrian share a passion for antiques, and their collaboration has been instrumental in the success of Hoof Brocante. However, Adrian’s personal life has not been without its difficulties.
First Wife & Tragedy
Adrian’s first wife passed away in 2003, a tragedy that deeply affected him. While Adrian tends to keep his private life relatively low-key, his late wife’s death had a significant emotional impact on him. Despite the loss, he continued to build his business and career, finding solace in his work and his growing role in the antiques world.
Children & Family
There is little public information regarding Adrian’s children, as he is a relatively private individual when it comes to his family. It is clear that Adrian values his family life and his connection to those closest to him.
Adrian Higham Health Journey and Weight Loss
Adrian has been open about his health struggles, particularly regarding weight. Over the years, he faced serious health issues due to his weight, which at one point reached around 36 stone (504 lbs). This weight gain, coupled with complications from health issues, led to a significant health scare when he collapsed on a ferry in 2015 due to health complications. The incident was a wake-up call for Adrian, prompting him to take his health more seriously.
In response to this, Adrian embarked on a journey of weight loss and lifestyle changes. He adopted healthier eating habits and started exercising regularly. While his transformation was not an easy one, he became an advocate for healthier living, openly discussing his struggles and triumphs in public.
His weight loss journey has been widely discussed, and many of his fans have praised his efforts. Adrian’s candidness about his health struggles and the changes he made in his life have inspired many of his followers to take charge of their own well-being.
Adrian Higham Net Worth and Wealth
As of recent estimates, Adrian Higham’s net worth is believed to be around £1 million (approximately $1 million USD). His wealth has been built through his antiques business, appearances on The Bidding Room, and his deep involvement in the world of collectibles and auctions. Adrian’s role on the BBC One show, combined with his successful antiques shop, has contributed significantly to his financial success.
The net worth estimate reflects his years of experience, as well as the popularity he gained through television and his ability to spot valuable items in the world of antiques. Adrian’s wealth is not solely tied to his television career, but rather a combination of his business ventures and media presence.
Adrian Higham Controversies and Legal Matters
Like many public figures, Adrian’s life has not been without its controversies. In late 2025, reports emerged of a legal issue involving a neighbour dispute, which escalated into a stalking protection order being issued against him. The incident led to some negative media coverage and strained his mental health, as Adrian faced emotional and psychological challenges during the ordeal. However, the charges were later dropped due to insufficient evidence, and the protection order was lifted.
This legal issue created some turbulence in Adrian’s life, but he was able to move past it, focusing on his business and his television career. Adrian has since spoken out about the emotional toll the situation took on him but has continued to pursue his passion for antiques.
The Current Situation
As of 2026, Adrian Higham continues to run his antiques business and appear on The Bidding Room. Despite the challenges he has faced over the years, Adrian remains a well-respected figure in the world of antiques and television. His passion for the trade and his ability to connect with the public has kept him in the spotlight.
Where Is Adrian Higham Now?
Adrian is still active in the antiques trade, regularly sourcing items for his shop and continuing his appearances on television. He and his wife Tara remain involved in their business, and Adrian’s presence in the antiques world is as strong as ever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Adrian Higham?
Adrian Higham was born in 1969, making him around 56 years old as of 2025.
2. Is Adrian Higham still alive?
Yes, Adrian Higham is still alive and continues to work in his antiques business and appear on television.
3. Is Adrian Higham married?
Yes, Adrian is married to Tara Franklin, his partner and business collaborator.
4. Does Adrian Higham have children?
There is no public information about Adrian having children, as he tends to keep his family life private.
5. What is Adrian Higham’s net worth?
Adrian Higham’s net worth is estimated to be around £1 million ($1 million USD).
6. What is Hoof Brocante?
Hoof Brocante is Adrian’s antique shop located in East Sussex, UK. The shop specializes in French antiques, vintage furniture, and eclectic items.
7. What is Adrian Higham known for on TV?
Adrian is best known for his role on The Bidding Room, where he is one of the expert antiques dealers.
8. What happened to Adrian Higham in 2025?
In 2025, Adrian was involved in a legal dispute related to a neighbour issue, which led to a stalking protection order. However, the charges were later dropped.
Conclusion
Adrian “Adi” Higham is more than just a television personality. His career as an antiques dealer, combined with his appearances on The Bidding Room, has made him a beloved figure in the world of antiques and beyond. Despite facing personal challenges and controversies, Adrian remains dedicated to his craft, inspiring others with his resilience and passion for the antique trade. Whether you’re a fan of his work on TV or someone with an interest in collecting valuable items, Adrian Higham’s story is one of dedication, success, and transformation.