Buying antique furniture from England

Find the furniture you mean

Our listings use the names supplied for each piece. If your first search does not find what you want, try another familiar term and compare the photographs. A name helps you discover an item; its description and measurements tell you whether it is right for your room.

Measure the piece and the route into your home

Product pages show centimetres and approximate inches where measurements are available. One inch equals 2.54 cm. Rounded conversions are useful for planning, but ask for a confirmed measurement where clearance is tight. Check overall height, width and depth as well as doorways, stairs and turns along the delivery route.

For a table, ask about the space beneath the apron, chair clearance and any extended dimensions. For a cabinet, confirm whether the stated size includes projecting mouldings or handles. Do not assume legs, shelves or a top can be removed for transport.

Read condition alongside age and style

Look for the stated period, materials and repairs in the individual description. Ask for close photographs of joints, feet, drawer interiors and any marks you want to understand. A description such as “Victorian style” describes a design reference; it should not be read as a confirmed Victorian date. An item sold from England is not necessarily English-made.

Plan the delivery enquiry before paying

Include the item link, state and ZIP code, plus any stairs or restricted access. Ask whether a quote covers packing, transport and the level of delivery you need. Confirm any other charges and the arrangements for damage or loss in writing. No standard US shipping price or arrival date is promised by this guide.

Adding smaller accents to a room? Read our decorative antiques guide for US buyers.