Curiously Wander at The Bath Vintage and Antiques Market

Are you in the market for silverware? How about a life-size ceramic dog? Ever wanted an antique map of the cosmos or a reclaimed rocking chair? A potted plant or an ornately decorated necklace in its original velvet casing?

On the last Sunday of every month, Green Park Station transforms into a literal cave of wonders. The Bath Vintage and Antiques Market, now in its sixth year, plays host to a multitude of vendors from both the city and the surrounding area. Curiously wander at the unexpected and antiquarian whilst the scent of wood-fired dough and roasting vegetables permeates this covered space. 

Though not as renowned as the nearby Frome Independent – an award-winning destination street market with traders from across the South West – the Bath Vintage and Antiques Market is quickly becoming the hub of market culture in the World Heritage City. Called “a firm favourite in the West Country” by Homes & Antiques, the market has grown in size and attendance with the city’s shift towards buying independent. 

Where else can you browse everything from gardenalia to haberdashery on the journey from the supermarket to the car? 

I speak to Alice Dobie, owner of Botanica Studios and stall holder at the market. Her plant-based interiors and installation business began in October of 2017, and she thanks in part the Vintage and Antiques Market for its budding success. Her social media is elegant in showcasing products that she sells here, attracting buyers to a table adorned with hanging and potted flora, trailing leaves and calming terrariums. 

“Having the market is so good because every month there is a point of sale where I can meet people.” Alice places the finishing touches on her stand; a garland of hand-crafted leaves, a stack of antique books, care labels in her own cursive script. “At the markets, I get to meet my customer. It’s really helpful to figure out who I’m selling to.”

I explore her products, my attention snared by their vibrancy. “There’s this real appetite for markets,” Alice continues. “Bath is a city of so many different populations, there are lots of artisan people here.” I agree, noting recent marketing on Walcot Street celebrating the city’s enthusiasm for independent businesses. That, as well as the Vintage and Antiques Market, has made buying local a factor of tourism. “And that’s good for everyone around here,” Alice finishes, giving a final shift of a potted cheese plant. 

“There’s money to spend on independence.”