A London Antiquing Adventure Awaits You

Make this summer one to remember. Join Kovels Antique Trader in London on a trip of a lifetime.

London

Working with professional tour operators in Europe, Kovels Antique Trader has launched Antique Adventures to create unique travel experiences centered around our hobby. The first stop: London.

From August 29 through September 5, editorial director Paul Kennedy and fellow editor Kele Johnson will play host to an unforgettable antiquing experience across the pond. The tour includes stays in four-star hotels, incredible antiques and collectibles shopping, visits to amazing museums, stops at breathtaking and historic palaces, and a lot of what makes London a true city of the world.

The London tour promises a grand yet intimate experience, with space limited.

Grays Antique Market Grays Antique Market Exterior: WikiCommons

The tour includes antique fairs, flea markets, and well-known London favorites such as Grays Antique Market, home to one of the world’s largest and most diverse collections of fine antiques and spectacular jewelry, and Leadenhall Market, one of the oldest markets in London, dating back as far back as the 14th century. Located in the historic center of London’s financial district, Leadenhall Market played a starring role in the Harry Potter films, making it a rather magical place for a bit of shopping.

Leadenhall MarketLondon’s Leadenhall Market: WikiCommons

While hunting for bargains in merry old England is great fun, you can’t go to London without taking in the city’s fantastic landmarks.

Westminster AbbeyWestminster Abbey

You’ll visit Westminster Abbey, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most important churches in the world. Westminster Abbey has been the setting for every Coronation since 1066 and for numerous other royal occasions, such as 16 royal weddings – including the 2011 marriage of Prince William to Catherine Middleton, as well as the wedding of William’s parents, Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.

You’ll walk in the footsteps of kings and queens at Kensington Palace, famously the birthplace of Queen Victoria in 1819 and a royal residence for more than 300 years. Speaking of royals, we’ll also take in Buckingham Palace, one of the few working royal palaces on earth. As a matter of fact, Buckingham Palace became the official London residence of the British monarch on the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837.

Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace

While the 830,000-square-foot Palace is filled with history, perhaps the most well-known bit of pomp and circumstance takes place outside: the famed Changing of Guard. The formal ceremony at the Palace’s forecourt has been around for centuries and is not to be missed.

Tower of London The Tower of London from the Thames: WikiCommons

The week will also include tours of the Tower of London, an incomparable medieval fortress and home of the Crown Jewels, and the British Museum, an architectural wonder and home to some of the world’s most noted antiquities, including the Rosetta Stone.

Mayflower Pub est. 1550Established in 1550, the Mayflower Pub is the oldest pub on the Thames in London: WikiCommons

London is filled with so much history that you can drink it in while sipping a pint of Guinness, which is what you’ll do one evening at the Mayflower Pub on the River Thames. The Pub’s proprietors say that from their establishment, you can see the original 1620 mooring point of the Mayflower, the ship that carried the Pilgrims from England to Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Greenwich MarketGreenwich Market

From antique shops to flea markets, palaces to museums, incredible food to new-found friends, the London tour promises an unforgettable chapter in your life’s story.

To learn more about Antique Adventures and the complete itinerary for the London Tour, click here.

Related:

Uncovering the Charms of Grays Antique Market 

Exploring the Eclectic Collections of the Sir John Soane’s Museum 

Kensington Palace Unveiled: Where Royalty Roamed

Antiquing Adventure: Branson

By Wayne Jordan

Branson, Missouri, captures the heart of Americana. It’s where you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American history, culture, and artistry. From the “chicken-pickin’’ of country guitar to the nostalgic treasures found in antique shops, every corner of Branson echoes with stories of the American journey. The city’s vibrant theater scene brings these stories to life with performances that honor the nation’s past and celebrate its spirit. Whether it’s a foot-tapping country music show, the soulful inspiration of gospel or Motown favorites, or the thrill of discovering a vintage artifact, Branson offers an engaging and patriotic experience connecting visitors to America’s roots.

Collectible Americana Defined

Americana in antiques and collectibles encompasses items that characterize the United States, its people, and its culture. Traditionally, Americana collectors have focused on flags, bald eagles, needlework, and historical items. However, items don’t need to be old to be categorized as Americana. Americana consists of cultural artifacts that represent the American experience. The American experience is broad and may include anything with historical, cultural, or nostalgic significance to the American journey. A hand-carved bald eagle is Americana, but so is Elvis; both have cultural relevance. They offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing individuals to touch, see, and even own a piece of American history.

Immersive Americana

The cultural experience in Branson is “immersive Americana.” A day of antiquing in Branson can be an unforgettable mix of treasure hunting, cultural enrichment, and entertainment. As you meander through the quaint antique shops, each item tells a story of America’s rich history and diverse heritage. The variety is endless, from vintage Americana memorabilia to classic vinyl records to rustic farm tools. Each piece holds a unique narrative waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a collector, history buff, or simply looking for a fun day, Branson’s blend of cultural experiences promises a memorable journey through the heart of Americana.

Here’s an itinerary that encapsulates the best of Branson for antique lovers who also crave a taste of the local culture and entertainment:

Morning: Antiquing Adventure

Start your day in Historic Downtown Branson. The Historic area encompasses downtown Branson, Branson Landing, and the surrounding areas. It is bordered by the Wolf River in the east and Lake Taneycomo on the north. The Theater district, home to many entertainment venues, lies west of the Downtown.

Historic Downtown Branson has several hundred businesses, including restaurants, retail shops, outdoor activities, and unique attractions. It’s easy to get around by riding Sparky, the free Downtown Trolley. The area is a goldmine for collectors, with over a half-dozen well-stocked antique shops.

At 114 N Commercial St., you’ll find the 417 Vintage Market. Housed in a 100-year-old building, the expansive “417” has three floors and thousands of square feet of carefully curated collectibles, décor and furnishings. Each floor showcases a nice mix of home goods, curated vintage, and distinctive antiques; it’s a delightful location with well-thought-out merchandising. While you’re there, enjoy a pick-me-up at their cafe, Commercial Street Coffee: keep your energy up for an active day ahead.

You’ll find Bratton’s Uniques and Antiques about one block west of the 417 at 120 N. Sycamore. The shop’s elegance is impressive. It is renowned for displaying an assortment of Branson’s finest antiques, including statues and figurines, art, jewelry, crystal, and the like. You won’t be disappointed.

There’s so much to see at the 417 and Bratton’s that you may be tempted to spend all morning exploring them. But leave time to explore the other Downtown antique shops. Each offers well-curated selections of antiques, collectibles, and memorabilia reflecting the rich history of Ozarks Americana.

Midday: Cultural Immersion

When you’re ready for lunch, mosey about a block south on South Commercial Street to number 103, where you’ll find Clocker’s Café. You can enjoy classic American comfort food in a quaint American setting. The menu features traditional comfort foods like prime rib sandwiches and biscuits and gravy. Don’t be surprised if you see a local celebrity: Clocker’s is a favorite entertainer hangout.

Afternoon: More Antiquing and Cultural Exploration

The vintage Vault & Mercantile, at 204 Veteran’s Blvd., is one of Downtown Branson’s newer additions. Started in 2021 by Susan Bramsch, the shop offers an eclectic mix of vintage and new items and local artists’ work. In 2023, the shop was voted “Best Antique Store” and “Best Home Décor” by readers of the Branson News. This is a downtown shop you don’t want to miss.

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

When you’re through antiquing, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Branson Landing waterfront and stop at one of the dozen restaurants in the Landing for a bite. You’ll find fare for every palate, from pizza to gourmet choices like Paula Deen’s Southern Kitchen and Guy Fieri’s Branson Kitchen & Bar. While you’re in the Landing, enjoy the spectacular fountain show, set to music, lights, and fire, and maybe even catch a live performance in the outdoor amphitheater.

Top the Day with a Show

No Americana tour of Branson would be complete without a visit to the Americana Theater. Here, you can choose from productions like “Classic Country,” “Awesome 80s,” “Elvis: Story of a King,” Disney’s “Once Upon a Fairy Tale,” the “Best of Motown” revue, “Southern Gospel Sundays” and others. These performances entertain and educate audiences about American music’s rich history and evolution.

To get to the Americana Theater from Downtown, head west on W 76 Country Blvd. Along the way, you’ll see the theaters, amusement parks, and entertainment venues that have made Branson famous.

If you want to combine dinner with a show, check out the paddlewheel riverboat Branson Belle. Table Rock Lake provides a peaceful backdrop as guests cruise in an old-fashioned four-deck, stern-wheel showboat. On board, dinner guests can enjoy a full-fledged music revue while dining. The leisurely cruise lasts about two hours.

The Full Americana Experience

Branson blends the thrill of antiquing with cultural insights and entertainment, offering a well-rounded Americana experience. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a casual collector, Branson’s blend of history, culture, and fun makes it a perfect destination.

For more information about visiting Branson, contact the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 417-334-4084 or visit their website.

Downtown Branson Banner

You may also like: 

Small Town…BIG Fun

Williamsburg: Where History and Antiquing Merge

Antiquing in the Heart of Gold Rush Country

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