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The Antiques Emporium: Kendal’s Premier Vintage Treasure Trove

Discover Kendal’s vibrant family-run antique centre with over 50 traders offering timeless treasures in a historic mill setting.

4.5

Nestled in Kendal’s Dockray Hall Mill, The Antiques Emporium is a vibrant family-run centre showcasing over 50 traders’ eclectic collections. Open daily, it offers antiques, retro furniture, collectibles, industrial reclaimed items, and more, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts seeking unique historical pieces and design inspiration in Cumbria.

A brief summary to The Antiques Emporium

  • Unit 8, Dockray Hall Mill, Kendal, LA9 4RU, GB
  • +441539734849
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter browsing experience and more personalized attention from traders.
  • Check out the Emporium’s stock of Frenchic Paint and Chestnut Wood Finishing Products if you’re interested in restoration projects.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the extensive variety of antiques and collectibles thoroughly.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique industrial interior and some of the more photogenic vintage items.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Stagecoach bus service from Kendal town centre to Dockray Hall Industrial Estate; journey time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, but check schedules for Sunday service. A single fare costs around £2 to £3 GBP.

  • Car

    Driving from Kendal town centre takes about 10 minutes via local roads. Free parking is available at Dockray Hall Mill, but spaces can fill up during weekends and holidays.

  • Taxi

    Local taxis can reach the Emporium in about 10 minutes from Kendal centre. Typical fare ranges from £7 to £12 GBP depending on time of day and traffic.

The Antiques Emporium location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Antiques Emporium

A Hub of History and Heritage in Kendal

The Antiques Emporium, established in 2014, stands as one of Cumbria’s largest and most diverse antique centres. Situated within the historic Dockray Hall Mill, the Emporium occupies a spacious industrial setting that echoes the region’s rich manufacturing past. This family-run business has cultivated a welcoming atmosphere where history lovers and collectors can explore a vast array of vintage and antique items. The Emporium’s location in Kendal, a market town known for its cultural heritage, enhances its appeal as a destination for those intrigued by the stories behind each piece.

An Ever-Evolving Collection of Unique Finds

Inside, visitors discover a constantly refreshed tapestry of treasures from more than 50 individual traders. The stock spans multiple eras and styles, including elegant period furniture, mid-century modern designs, retro collectibles, old books, paintings, kitchenalia, jewellery, and industrial reclaimed or repurposed items. This diversity ensures that every visit offers new discoveries, whether you seek a statement piece for your home or a rare collectible. The Emporium also supports local artisans and traders, fostering a community dedicated to preserving and celebrating craftsmanship.

Distinctive Services and Community Engagement

Beyond its extensive stock, The Antiques Emporium serves as a local stockist for Frenchic Paint and Chestnut Wood Finishing Products, catering to restoration enthusiasts and DIY renovators. The Emporium’s commitment to quality and authenticity extends to its partnerships and customer experience. It has attracted media attention, featuring on popular TV programmes such as Antiques Road Trip and Antiques Roadshow, and in magazines like Homes & Antiques and Cumbria Life, highlighting its reputation as a trusted and beloved institution.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

The spacious layout within the converted mill combines industrial charm with a vibrant marketplace feel. Natural light filters through large windows, illuminating the carefully curated displays. Visitors can leisurely browse through the myriad stalls, engaging with knowledgeable traders eager to share the provenance and stories of their items. The Emporium’s no-entry-fee policy and free parking make it accessible and inviting for families, collectors, and casual browsers alike.

Location and Surroundings

Located at Unit 8, Dockray Hall Mill, the Emporium benefits from Kendal’s scenic South Lakes setting. Kendal itself offers a blend of historic architecture, quaint streets, and proximity to the Lake District National Park, making a visit to the Emporium a perfect complement to exploring the region. The area’s tranquil yet lively character enhances the shopping experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in both cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Commitment to Sustainability and Local Culture

While primarily a commercial venue, The Antiques Emporium contributes to sustainable practices by promoting the reuse and repurposing of vintage and industrial items. This approach aligns with growing environmental awareness and supports the preservation of local craftsmanship traditions. The Emporium’s role as a cultural hub helps maintain Kendal’s identity as a centre for heritage, design, and community engagement in Cumbria.

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