Antiques Across the Pond

Head on over to London this spring for a spot of high-end antiquing.

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Courtesy of BADA

George III Armschairs

A pair of George III Carved Giltwood Amrchairs, in the manner of Thomas Chippendale, circa 1765. Exhibitor: Frank Partridge, $450,000.

There are plenty of reasons to visit London during springtime, like seeing the grey gloom of winter finally lift to reveal the sun sparkling over the River Thames. But if you're into antiques and fine art then there's only one reason and one particular location you'll be headed for.

The British Antique Dealers' Association's Antiques and Fine Arts Fair takes place March 21 through 27 in the well-to-do West London area of Chelsea. This year marks the BADA Fair's 20th anniversary, and more than 100 exhibitors will be offering an unrivalled range of top quality furniture, paintings, silver, jewelry, ceramics, glass, clocks, textiles and other works of art.

As well as the items for sale, there will be a loaned exhibition titlied "Pomp, Pagentry & Protectio," featuring a selection of 16th, 17th and 18th-century ceremonial polearms from the personal bodyguards of the Royal Houses of Europe.

Of course, you'll need somewhere to stay. For an intimate experience in elegant Victorian-era surroundings, we can recommend The Kensington Gardens Hotel in Kensington Gardens Square. For something a little grander, try the award winning Capital Hotel on Basil Street, which is also offering special rates to visitors to the BADA Fair.

Happy high-end antiquing!