Introduction
In the world of British antiques, few personalities have charmed audiences quite like Adrian “Adi” Higham. Known for his vibrant personality, sharp eye for rare collectibles, and warm, approachable nature, Higham became a household name through his appearances on television, most notably The Bidding Room. His story is not simply one of commercial success—it is one of resilience, reinvention, personal transformation, and passion for an industry he has loved his whole life.
This magazine-style biography explores his early life, family, hardships, triumphs, and the financial success he has built over decades, offering a clear, human look at the man behind the antiques.
Contents
-
Quick Bio Table
-
Early Life & Education
-
Age & Physical Appearance
-
Career & Passion
-
How Adrian Met His Partner
-
Marriage Story
-
Partner Background
-
Family Life & Parenthood
-
Divorce or Separation
-
Life After Divorce
-
Privacy & Lifestyle
-
Current Life & Career
-
Public Perception & Legacy
-
Net Worth
-
Conclusion
-
FAQs
Quick Bio Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Adrian Higham |
| Known For | Antique dealer, star of The Bidding Room |
| Date of Birth | September 1969 (approx.) |
| Age | Early–mid 50s |
| Birthplace | United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | Local schooling; trained through hands-on antique dealing |
| Professions | Antique dealer, restorer, TV personality, entrepreneur |
| Marital Status | Divorced; currently in a long-term relationship |
| Spouse/Ex-Spouse | Name not publicly disclosed |
| Children | Yes, though private about details |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 10 in |
| Weight | Known to have struggled with weight; later underwent significant health improvements |
| Physical Features | Distinctive beard, warm smile, expressive personality |
| Net Worth | Estimated £1–2 million (approx.) |
| Residence | Kent, England |
| Religion | Not publicly stated; generally private |
| Social Media Status | Limited but active; prefers offline engagement |
| Notable Traits | Charismatic, knowledgeable, humorous, resilient, passionate about antiques |
Early Life & Education
Adrian Higham grew up in the United Kingdom with a natural fascination for history, objects, and stories—three ingredients that would later define his entire professional identity. While he did not pursue formal higher education in art or history, he was a hands-on learner from childhood.
He reportedly discovered antiques through markets and fairs, where he learned to recognize value in forgotten pieces. What began as curiosity soon became livelihood. By his late teens and early twenties, Higham was already trading small items, attending auctions, and building relationships with sellers and collectors.
His education, as he often hints in interviews, came from the field itself—from touching objects, negotiating deals, making mistakes, and learning from them.
Age & Physical Appearance
In his early fifties, Adrian Higham carries himself with the confidence of a seasoned expert and the friendliness of someone who loves connecting with people. His rugged look, trademark smile, and expressive gestures are part of what made him instantly recognizable on screen.
Higham has openly discussed his struggles with weight, eventually embarking on a personal health journey that resonated with many fans. His transformation, though private, reflected a commitment to well-being that mirrored his perseverance in business.
Career & Passion
Adrian built his career the traditional way—through markets, fairs, house clearances, and auctions. Over decades, he developed an impeccable eye for rare, quirky, or historically rich items.
His business, specializing in quirky vintage pieces, architectural salvage, and unusual antiques, grew steadily. Higham became known for his bold purchases, instinctive valuations, and enthusiastic explanations of an item’s heritage.
When he joined BBC’s The Bidding Room, his natural talent and charm made him a standout dealer. His appearances showcased not only expertise but kindness—he treated sellers with respect and sincerity, offering fairness while educating viewers.
This combination of knowledge and integrity quickly endeared him to audiences.
How He Met His Partner
After experiencing hardship, including personal losses and health struggles, Adrian found new light in his relationship with Tara Franklin, an experienced dealer in decorative antiques. They reportedly met within the antiques community, brought together by a mutual passion for objects with history and soul.
Their relationship grew steadily through shared work, markets, business ideas, and personal understanding.

Marriage Story
Adrian was previously married, though he has kept the details of his former marriage private out of respect for his family. His relationship with Tara emerged later in life, reflecting not just companionship but collaboration.
Though not married, the pair have built a committed partnership grounded in trust and mutual respect.
Partner Background
Tara Franklin is a respected antique specialist, known for her refined taste, eye for decorative pieces, and creative approach to restoration.
Her knowledge complements Adrian’s instinctive style, forming a professional synergy that has strengthened both of their careers. She is admired for her elegant approach to antiques and her ability to find beauty in forgotten pieces.
Family Life & Parenthood
Adrian Higham is a father, though he has made a conscious decision to keep his children’s identities private. Despite his public career, he maintains strong boundaries around family life.
He has spoken warmly about his children in interviews, suggesting a deep commitment to fatherhood.
Divorce/Separation
His previous marriage ended quietly, without public drama. Adrian has always been private about this chapter of his life, choosing instead to focus on personal growth, professional expansion, and building a new life anchored in shared passions.
Life After Divorce
After his separation, Adrian immersed himself in business, restoration projects, and rebuilding his personal life. His relationship with Tara brought renewed happiness, stability, and joy. He also invested time in health improvements, which brought a renewed sense of vitality.
Privacy & Lifestyle
Despite his TV fame, Adrian lives a mostly quiet life in Kent. He prefers markets to red carpets, workshops to events, and authenticity over spectacle.
His social media presence is limited, often used for business rather than personal promotion. His lifestyle reflects simplicity, passion for craft, and a love for meaningful objects.
Current Life & Career
Adrian Higham continues to deal in antiques, restore vintage items, and collaborate with his partner. His popularity from The Bidding Room has opened opportunities, but he remains rooted in the everyday world of buying, selling, and discovering stories hidden in old pieces.
He is admired for staying true to himself even as his audience grew.
Public Perception & Legacy
Higham is celebrated for more than his expertise—he is loved for his warmth. Viewers appreciate his respectful negotiation style, his emotional connection to antiques, and his grounded personality.
His legacy is shaping into one of honest craftsmanship, public warmth, and dedicated lifelong passion.
Net Worth
Adrian Higham’s net worth is estimated at £1–2 million.
This includes:
-
Antique dealing profits
-
Television earnings
-
Restoration business revenue
-
Long-term investment in collectible assets
His wealth reflects decades of hard work rather than overnight success.
Conclusion
Adrian Higham’s life is a vivid tapestry of passion, perseverance, and human warmth. His journey from local markets to national television is a testament to the power of pursuing what you love, learning from lived experience, and remaining grounded through success. With a loyal audience and a thriving career, Adrian continues to inspire collectors, viewers, and anyone who believes in the beauty of history and craftsmanship.
FAQs
1. What is Adrian Higham’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at £1–2 million, earned through antiques, television, and restoration work.
2. What show is Adrian Higham known for?
He is widely known for his role on BBC’s The Bidding Room.
3. Is Adrian Higham married?
He was previously married but is now in a committed long-term relationship with Tara Franklin.
4. What does Adrian’s partner do?
Tara Franklin is an antique dealer specializing in decorative and vintage pieces.
5. Where does Adrian Higham live?
He resides in Kent, England, where he continues to work in antiques.
6. Does he have children?
Yes, though he keeps their details private.
