Ep 1. Episode 1

In Antiques Road Trip season 5 episode 1, aptly titled Episode 1, two expert antique dealers, Charlie Ross and James Braxton, embark on a new adventure across Britain to uncover hidden treasures. The show follows their journey, as they explore various antique shops, markets, and auctions, in search of valuable antiques that they can buy, restore, and sell for a profit.

The episode begins with Charlie and James meeting up in Gloucester, where they are introduced to their vehicles for the road trip – two classic cars. Charlie sets off in a 1960s MG Midget, while James takes the wheel of a 1970s Rolls Royce Silver Shadow. The two antique dealers have a friendly rivalry, and they immediately start teasing each other about their chosen cars. Charlie boasts that his MG Midget is small, nimble, and fast, while James argues that his Rolls Royce is big, comfortable, and luxurious.

Their first destination is the picturesque town of Tewkesbury, where they visit one of the largest antique centers in the country. The vast array of antiques on display is overwhelming, but Charlie and James are determined to find something special. They split up and start browsing different stalls, looking for items that catch their eye. Charlie is drawn to a vintage typewriter, while James is fascinated by a collection of antique fishing rods.

After some negotiation, Charlie manages to buy the typewriter for £35, and James buys the fishing rods for £65. They then head to a nearby restoration workshop, where they meet an expert who advises them on how to restore their finds. The typewriter needs a new ribbon and some cleaning, while the fishing rods require new reels and a protective varnish.

Feeling confident about their purchases, Charlie and James continue their road trip to the town of Hereford, where they visit a local auction house. Here, they hope to find some high-value antiques that could bring them a significant profit. The auctioneer shows them several lots, including a Georgian silver teapot, a Victorian mahogany display cabinet, and a set of Royal Worcester porcelain plates.

Both Charlie and James are impressed by the items, but they are also aware of the risks involved in buying at auction. They decide to bid cautiously and only go for items that they think will fetch a good price. In the end, Charlie successfully buys the silver teapot for £120, and James buys the porcelain plates for £80.

Feeling pleased with their purchases, Charlie and James decide to take a break and visit a local pub, where they sample some of the region's famous cider. They discuss their strategy for selling their antiques at the end of the road trip, and both are confident that they can make a profit.

Their next stop is the historic town of Ludlow, where they visit a local antiques fair. The fair is packed with antique dealers and collectors, and Charlie and James have to use all their expertise to find bargains. Charlie manages to buy a vintage camera for £30, while James buys a set of antique copper pans for £60.

Their final destination for the day is the nearby town of Leominster, where they visit a farmhouse that is home to a remarkable collection of antiques. The farmhouse is a treasure trove of rare and unusual items, including an 18th-century grandfather clock, a medieval suit of armor, and a collection of antique toys.

Charlie and James are amazed by the collection, but they are also wary of the high prices. They decide to focus on smaller items that are more affordable and easier to sell. Charlie buys a wooden egg box for £20, while James buys a Victorian pestle and mortar for £40.

With their day of antique hunting over, Charlie and James return to their cars and drive to their accommodation for the night. They are tired but exhilarated by their finds, and they can't wait to see how much they will make when they sell them at the end of the road trip.

Episode 1 of Antiques Road Trip season 5 is a thrilling and entertaining start to the series, featuring stunning locations, fascinating antiques, and the cheeky banter of two expert antique dealers. Fans of the show will be delighted to see Charlie and James back on the road, and newcomers will be hooked by the excitement and drama of the antiques trade.