Frequently Asked Questions
Our Vintage & Antique Pieces
What does The Urban Vintage Affair sell?
We source and sell unique antiques and vintage homeware accessories encouraging new
reuses. categorising in creative end use themes instead of just generic product categories. We have quality and inspiring Georgian, Victorian and Midcentury homeware accessories for functional use for 21st century urban living. With our most popular collections being. Antique For Creative Men, Retro Home Bar, Home Desk Accessories and Cabinet of Curiosities.
Can you use the kitchen and bar items for their original purpose?
Yes, functionality is important to us. Every piece of vintage kitchenware and antique barware is checked to confirm its intended use, especially anything designed to hold liquid. A small number of pieces are sold for decorative use only, and this will be clearly stated in the listing.
What is the difference between vintage and antique?
Many people feel antiques can seem inaccessible, while vintage feels more approachable. For us, the real difference is simple: vintage is nostalgia, antique is history, carrying a level of craftsmanship we rarely see today. An antique item is anything at least 100 years old. A vintage item is younger, usually 40 years old but less than 100.
How do you verify the authenticity of your items?
We take full responsibility for every item we list. Each piece undergoes thorough antique authentication, researched using reference books and cross-checked online, since online information isn't always reliable. We're always learning and love sharing that knowledge with our customers too. We also protect our reputation by working only with trusted antique dealers and reputable sources.
Why buy antique instead of new?
We're not against buying new — there's an understandable place for it, which is why we also carry a collection of new handmade, sustainable homeware, small runs of quality items. However, antique furniture and homeware carry something new pieces can't. heritage, story, and craftsmanship passed down through generations. Next time you're shopping, why not consider buying antique instead?
How should I clean and care for wood, silver, glass, and other antiques?
Every antique needs its own specific care. Please see our general Antique Care and Cleaning Guide, and our blogs for more detail: Leather, Silver, Paper Mâché, Glass. If you're still unsure, feel free to get in touch!
Our Values
How is sustainability implemented in your business?
Brand values matter deeply to us at The Urban Vintage Affair. We think "sustainability" is often an overused, over-promised word. So instead, we focus on social responsibility through ethical sourcing, our open box service, environmental stewardship, and continuously giving back. We believe each piece should go to a home where it's used and its history embraced — giving vintage and antique pieces another life and promoting conscious consumption.
Delivery and Returns
Are returns and refunds available?
Yes. If there's a problem with your item, please email us within 48 hours of delivery. All items must be returned within 14 days, in their original condition. If you're returning something broken or faulty, please include a video rather than only photos, since photos can now be manipulated using AI. See our full Returns and Refunds Policy for details, or email us with any further questions.
How long will delivery take?
Delivery times vary by location, but we always aim to over-deliver on speed. Standard UK delivery takes approximately 5–8 days and is free on orders over £80. Express courier delivery is also available in the UK. International shipping orders are processed Monday to Friday and typically arrive within 1–10 days. Additional delivery information is available on our Delivery & Returns page.
Is gift wrapping available?
Yes. Simply add our Luxury Gift Box & Wrapping to your order. If your order is a gift going directly to the recipient, we can include a complimentary personal message card from you at no extra charge. If you'd like this service, just let us know at checkout or via email what you'd like us to write (to fit on a postcard).
Payments & Discounts
What if a product is above my budget?
No problem — you have the option to Buy Now, Pay Later, including PayPal in 3 interest-free instalments across 3 months, Clearpay in 4 instalments due every 2 weeks, and Klarna in 3 instalments within 30 days. Full payment and purchasing information can be found on our Purchasing page.
How can I get a discount?
Sign up to our mailing list for 10% off your first order. Keep an eye on your inbox so you'll be the first to hear about exclusive vintage sale discounts reserved only for our subscribers.
Inventory, Stock & Events
What happens to all the items from the TV programmes?
Items featured on The Bidding Room don't just disappear into storage — you can own a piece of televised antiques history with purchases made on The Bidding Room. For info check out our more behind-the-scenes of The Bidding Room
How often do you get new stock?
New vintage and antique stock is listed every Sunday, look out for #NewVintageSunday. Follow us on Instagram and X (Twitter) for first access, as we like to show off our pieces the same day we find them. Turn on notifications so you never miss a piece you love.
Where can I find you or shop your collection in person?
Follow us on social media and check our Events Page for upcoming vintage and antique markets and events. For hiring or collaboration enquiries, please get in touch through social media or email us at info@theurbanvintageaffair.com.
Can you source something specific for me?
Yes, we offer a personal antique sourcing service. If you're looking for something specific, or several items, let us know exactly what you're after and we'll do our very best to source vintage and antique pieces for you.
Do you offer valuations?
We don't offer antique valuations ourselves, but check your local auction house, they'll be able to provide expert appraisal services for insurance and probate purposes.