Car boot sale at Apsley, Hertforshire
One of the fabulous British traditions is the Car Boot Sale. It's very much like a mass garage sale or a flea market. People who wish to sell their slightly used wares or unwanted antiques can for a small fee enter a car boot sale. They usually take place at a public meeting point such as a school or community building. Just drive your loaded car, van or truck and open up your trunk (boot) and you are in business! They usually take place on summer weekends and are great fun! Not the place to go if your looking for very specific finds, but a great place if you're just looking for that special thing you weren't sure that you really needed, but just fell in love with. You can expect to find books, pottery, vintage clothes, textiles and even small furniture. Over the many years of the British Antiques Roadshow, countless gems have been found at a local boot sale. Because of this, you will often find professional antique dealers checking out the wares.
Ironically enough, the car boot sale was brought to England by Father Harry Clark who was a Catholic priest living in Stockport, England. He was visiting Canada and saw a similar event and decided it would go over well in the UK. They can be found throughout the U.K. It is best to arrive early to get the best merchandise and do not be afraid to haggle. No one expects you to pay the price on the ticket. It's a great way to spend a day doing something a typical Brit would do and come home with some treasures! If you would like to visit a car boot sale check out this link, http://carboot.com/car-boot-sales-listing-by-uk-local-areas.html
