Ep 11. Highcliffe Castle

In this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK, the team travels to Highcliffe Castle in Dorset to appraise an impressive array of items brought in by local residents and visitors. The castle, situated on the scenic coast of the English Channel, has a rich history and has attracted a diverse range of collectors over the years.

The first item to be examined is a silver jug, brought in by a local couple who inherited it from a relative. The jug has an intricate design and is dated to the early 19th century, but its origins are initially uncertain. The Antiques Roadshow team calls in an expert to help unravel the mystery, tracing the jug's provenance back to a prominent English silversmith. The couple is thrilled to learn more about their family heirloom and the history behind it.

Next up is a series of paintings brought in by a woman who inherited them from her great-grandfather. The paintings, depicting landscapes and everyday scenes, are by a relatively unknown English artist and have been in the family for generations. The expert appraiser is impressed by the quality of the paintings and notes that they are a valuable representation of English countryside life in the mid-19th century.

One particularly unusual item brought in for appraisal is a pair of large French vases, which the owners found in a local antiques shop. The vases are lavishly decorated with intricate designs and gold leaf, and date to the late 19th century. The expert appraiser explains that the vases were likely produced for export and would have been very expensive at the time, making them a rare and valuable find.

Another interesting item to be examined is a vintage toy car, brought in by a man who has been collecting them since he was a child. The car is a replica of an early 20th-century racing car and is in excellent condition. The Antiques Roadshow team calls in an expert on vintage toys, who explains that the car would have been made in a small batch by a skilled craftsman and would have been a treasured possession for any child lucky enough to own one.

One of the most touching moments of the episode comes when a woman brings in a set of old-fashioned knitting needles, which belonged to her beloved grandmother. The woman explains that her grandmother was an excellent knitter and made many cherished items for family members over the years. The expert appraiser notes that while the needles themselves may not have much monetary value, they are a precious link to the past and a testament to the grandmother's skill and creativity.

As always, the Antiques Roadshow team also takes a closer look at some more unusual and quirky items brought in by visitors. These include a set of vintage biscuit tins, a collection of old postcards, and a delicate crystal bowl with an intriguing family history. The appraisers provide valuable insights into the history and value of each item and help the owners to gain a greater appreciation for their significance.

Overall, this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of collectibles and antiques, with a diverse range of items and stories to interest any viewer. The picturesque setting of Highcliffe Castle only adds to the charm and allure of this popular series, making it a must-watch for fans of history, art, and culture.