Adrian “Adi” Higham’s net worth is estimated to be between £1.5 million and £2.5 million as of 2026. This wealth has been accumulated over a prolific 30-year career as a specialist antiques dealer, television personality, and business owner. Higham is best known for his role as a charismatic dealer on the BBC’s hit series The Bidding Room, where his “larger than life” personality and expertise in mechanical toys, vintage signs, and French brocante made him a fan favorite. His primary source of income stems from his highly successful antiques business, Hoof Brocante, which specializes in sourcing unique items from France, alongside significant earnings from his television appearances and brand collaborations.
The Origins of a Dealing Dynasty
Adrian Higham’s career began not with a silver spoon, but with a keen eye for a bargain at a local village auction. At the age of 21, Higham purchased a mountain bike for just £10 and successfully sold it for £90 via a local newspaper advertisement. This 800% profit margin provided the “buzz” that hooked him into the world of professional dealing, leading him to abandon his previous signage business to pursue antiques full-time.
For the first decade of his career, Higham focused on traditional furniture and restoration. However, he soon realized that the most lucrative opportunities lay in “niche” markets—items with personality, history, and mechanical complexity. This pivot allowed him to survive market downturns that saw many of his contemporaries close their doors.
Hoof Brocante and French Sourcing
The cornerstone of Adrian Higham’s net worth is his business, Hoof Brocante (formerly Hoof of Kent). Unlike many dealers who rely on local estate sales, Higham pioneered a cross-channel business model. He spends a significant portion of his time in France, particularly in the Normandy region, sourcing “galvanized metal, architectural salvage, and rustic French furniture.”
By buying directly from French markets and “vide-greniers” (attic sales), Higham is able to acquire stock at lower price points and sell to a hungry UK market looking for the “shabby chic” or “industrial” aesthetic. This high-volume, high-margin strategy has allowed him to build a substantial asset base, including a fleet of commercial vehicles and a dedicated warehouse in Romney Marsh, Kent.
Television Success: The Bidding Room
Higham’s financial profile saw a significant boost when he was cast in the BBC One series The Bidding Room. Appearing alongside host Nigel Havers, Higham became one of the key dealers responsible for bidding on items brought in by the public. While the exact salaries of the dealers are not public, experts suggest that experienced television antiques experts can earn between £20,000 and £40,000 per series in appearance fees.
More importantly, the “TV effect” served as a massive marketing engine for his private business. Higham noted that after the show aired, interest in his personal stock skyrocketed, allowing him to command premium prices for items associated with his “brand.” His specialty in mechanical toys and teddy bears became a signature, often leading to bidding wars on the show that showcased his deep pockets and strategic negotiation skills.
Diversified Assets and Investments
Beyond the antiques trade, Higham has strategically diversified his wealth into real estate and international holdings. He maintains a residence in East Sussex and a second home on the Normandy borders in France. These properties serve both as personal retreats and as logistical hubs for his buying trips, saving the business thousands in travel and storage costs.
His company, HOOF4U LTD, is a testament to his organized approach to wealth management. By structuring his dealings through a private limited company, Higham has been able to reinvest profits back into the business, funding the purchase of high-value “investment pieces” that appreciate over time. His collection of vintage signs and steam-related memorabilia alone is estimated to be worth six figures.
Challenges and Recent Court Appearances
In 2025 and early 2026, Higham faced public challenges regarding a long-standing neighbor dispute in East Sussex. While these legal proceedings were widely reported, they appear to be personal matters rather than a reflection of his business solvency. Higham has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, citing the “hell” of the dispute as a significant mental health burden.
Despite these headlines, Higham’s professional reputation in the antiques trade remains robust. He continues to be a sought-after guest speaker and marketing partner for automotive and lifestyle brands. His ability to maintain a high net worth despite legal costs is a testament to the stability of his primary business, Hoof Brocante.
Practical Information and Planning
For those looking to trade with or visit Adrian Higham’s business in 2026, here is what you need to know:
Location: The main warehouse and business hub for Hoof Brocante is located at the Romney Marsh Business Hub, New Romney, Kent.
Operating Hours: The warehouse is often “by appointment only” or open during specific trade days. It is essential to check his social media or website before traveling.
What to Expect: A massive variety of French industrial items, vintage toys, and unique garden ornaments. Higham’s stock is known for being “unrestored and honest.”
Buying Online: Higham is a digital-first dealer, frequently listing new finds on Instagram and Facebook. Much of his turnover happens before items even reach the warehouse floor.
Tips for Sellers: If you have mechanical toys, vintage signage, or unique French items, Higham is often looking for stock. However, he prefers items with “the look”—original patina and character are more important than being perfectly polished.
FAQs
What is Adrian Higham’s estimated net worth in 2026?
His net worth is estimated at £1.5M – £2.5M, derived from his 30-year career in antiques and television earnings.
Where can I find Adrian Higham’s shop?
His business, Hoof Brocante, is based in New Romney, Kent, though he primarily sells online and through trade fairs.
Is Adrian Higham still on The Bidding Room?
While he was a staple of the early series, Higham has recently focused more on his private business and personal projects in France and the UK.
Who is Adrian Higham’s wife?
Higham is in a long-term relationship with Tara Franklin, who is also an expert in textiles and works closely with him in the antiques trade.
What does “Hoof Brocante” mean?
“Hoof” is a brand name Higham has used for years, while “Brocante” is the French word for a second-hand or antique market.
How did Adrian Higham get famous?
He gained national fame as a regular dealer on the BBC show The Bidding Room, where he was known for his love of teddy bears and mechanical items.
Does Adrian Higham live in France?
He splits his time between East Sussex in the UK and a home on the Normandy border in France, which he uses as a base for buying trips.
What is Adrian Higham’s specialty in antiques?
He specializes in French industrial items, galvanized metal, vintage signs, and “bonkers” mechanical toys.
Can I hire Adrian Higham for events?
Yes, he is available for guest speaking and marketing appearances through talent platforms like Pickstar.
Has Adrian Higham written a book?
While he has not released a formal autobiography, he frequently shares “part-autobiographical” insights and trade secrets through his business blogs and interviews.
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