Antiques Road Trip new series on the BBC

Popular Antiques Road Show spin-off, Antiques Road Trip, which is made for the BBC by STV, has returned for its new series. And this time you will be able to enjoy 15 extra minutes on every one of the 30 new journeys as they are extended from 30 minutes to 45.

The first series of Antiques Road Trip has proved to be hugely successful in its early evening BBC Two slot, attracting audiences of up to 2.6 million.

The series pairs Britain’s best loved antiques experts and sends them on a road trip across the UK. During the first series eight of television’s best known experts competed and put their knowledge to the test as they looked to make a fortune in the auction house, travelling the UK along the way.

The return of Antiques Road Trip will delight Anita, who previously said of filming the show, Anita said:  

“It was an utterly nail biting experience.”

“ I laughed a lot but there were also times when I could have burst into tears - on the way I made some huge profits and even bigger losses - but I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.”

The experts hit the road in their beautiful vintage cars, and with a sum of £200 they travel through the UK seeking out antique shops and buying low to sell high at auction at the end of each show.

Alan Clements, director of content for STV, said:  “We’re delighted that audiences are enjoying Antiques Road Trip and are thrilled to be producing a second and longer series for the BBC.

“It’s a fantastic format with some brilliant characters, which really appeals to viewers, and we can’t wait to get cracking on the next instalment.”

BBC Bargain Hunt - Charles Hanson Auction Profile

Gold and silver questions? See the site

Charles Hanson…We say sale!

Charles Hanson is a popular figure on BBC TV’s Bargain Hunt both as an antiques expert and as an auctioneer. With his a quirky dress sense – often appearing in suits that seem slightly too small for him and his youthful looking appearance. This belies the fact that he is well respected in the antiques world and is the owner of his own auction house that he set up in 2005.

Auctioneer and expert valuer Kate Bliss also works there.

Presenter Tim Wonnacott often refers to Charles Hanson as “Carlos”, for no particular reason that anyone can see, but somehow the name suits him.

Although Charles is good fun as an expert and no slouch at finding great bargains for his team, his auctioneering style is very entertaining.

The first thing you may notice is his rather hoarse voice. He shouts encouragement at his audience and has a range of great phrases. Look and listen out for “We say sale” and lots of, "I’m in your out”…type expressions all delivered amidst copious sips of water. His obvious enthusiasm is infectious and he often perseveres to get good prices.

The mysterious Miss Hornblower is becoming a feature of the Charles Hanson auction house when the Bargain Hunt Team is in town. Perhaps she always goes or perhaps she is lured by the cameras. Whoever she is, this smartly dressed audience member has been the saviour of many a bargain hunt team offering a dodgy item for sale!