Ep 5. Sharon Maughan and Tina Hobley

Sharon Maughan, the English actress, and fellow actress Tina Hobley teamed up for the fifth episode of Celebrity Antiques Road Trip's seventh season. Both of these ladies were seeking to prove their antique hunting prowess while raising money for Children in Need.

Maughan, born on the island of Jamaica, has a decorated career in TV, film, and stage productions in the UK and America. Her most notable works include her role as Maria in The Maria Aitken Trilogy and her appearances on popular TV shows like Holby City, Peak Practice, and Game, Set, and Match. Hobley, on the other hand, is famous for her work as Chrissie Williams on the well-known medical drama, Holby City. She has also acted on TV shows like Coronation Street and The Bill, securing her status as a favourite British soap star.

The episode follows the two actresses as they stop at various antique stores while driving around the stunning English countryside of Kent. They also make plans for some pit stops at some significant sites.

Maughan and Hobley started their adventure by visiting Faversham, a market town that's got heaps of history and culture. It is close to the coast, making it an ideal locale for sales of the local produce and items obtained from the sea. Here, the actresses visited the Purton House Trading antique shop, renowned for its high-quality items, including vintage furniture, china, porcelain, and glassware, and decorative pieces with a rich history. They also tried their hand at steam engine driving at the Faversham miniature railway.

The next stop was the village of Sandwich, located on the Kent Coast between Ramsgate and Dover. This beautiful town boasts a wide range of antique shops housed in stunning old buildings characteristic of this area. Maughan and Hobley specifically visited the Quay Lane Antique Centre, which sells a wide variety of antiques and collectibles. They were amazed by the fascinating jewelry, furniture, and other unique goods available here.

The actresses also took a stroll in Kiln Walks, a beautiful garden with a kiln cottage and a pond. The garden was open to the public, and visitors could enjoy the scenic spots perfect for relaxation, taking photographs, and a quiet stroll.

Another notable location the ladies visited was the Kent and East Sussex Railway, a famous tourist attraction located in Tenterden. The train runs along a 10.5-mile track connecting Tenterden and Bodiam. The actresses enjoyed the beautiful scenery, fresh air, and unique architectural sights available all through their journey.

Later, Maughan and Hobley spend time at the Winklebury Cider Farm, where they got a unique taste of artisan cider made with apples from the estate's orchard. They gained an insight into the production process and assisted the workers with their cider making. They also indulged in some delicious cider tasting.

The two actresses concluded their journey in Birchington, home to some of the most incredible antiques shops in England. They visited D and J Sports and Countrywear, a well-known stall with clothing and footwear for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. Here, they purchased bespoke belts and boots as souvenirs.

Maughan, a veteran of the show, managed to amass an impressive collection of antiques. Hobley wasn't far behind, delivering the same spirit, aplomb, and drive to bag exciting antiques. The two ladies were thrilled at the end to reveal the total amount of money they raised for Children in Need. Who won? You'll have to tune in to find out!