RWB Auctions

Rather than wandering through a stately home or countryside, you're stepping into a working auction house where furniture, ceramics, artwork and collectibles change hands regularly. The real magic happens on viewing days when you can wander through at leisure, examining each piece without pressure. Every item carries its own history, and there's genuine satisfaction in uncovering something unexpected or spotting a potential bargain tucked amongst the collection.

If you want the full experience, attend an actual auction. The bidding has real drama to it, and you'll see firsthand how the antiques trade actually operates. You needn't be a serious collector to get something from it—plenty of visitors come simply to watch and soak up the atmosphere.

Royal Wootton Bassett itself is worth spending an hour or two exploring. It's a historic market town with genuine character, sitting conveniently between Swindon and Marlborough. If you're based elsewhere in the Cotswolds, perhaps around Cirencester or Malmesbury, it's quite accessible and makes a worthwhile detour when you're exploring the southern reaches of the region.