
Waterside Antiques
Explore three floors of treasures at Waterside Antiques in Ely, a riverside gem packed with vintage finds, French antiques, and old tools.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

Waterside Antiques
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore three floors of treasures at Waterside Antiques in Ely, a riverside gem packed with vintage finds, French antiques, and old tools.
"A prime location with a great range of items on sale across several floors, something for everyone!"

Allocate ample browsing time
With three floors of treasures, give yourself plenty of time to explore every nook and cranny.
Check for minimum card spend
Be aware of the minimum card spend, typically £10, for purchases.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Three Floors of Finds
Entire building
Explore a vast collection across multiple levels, from small curiosities to statement furniture pieces.

Specialty Tool Collections
Top floor
Discover a dedicated section featuring a wide array of old tools for woodworking and collectors.

French Antiques & Vintage
Various sections, curated by Jen
Seek out exquisite French treasures and unique vintage items, often highlighted by specific dealers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Treasures
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate ample browsing time
With three floors of treasures, give yourself plenty of time to explore every nook and cranny.
Check for minimum card spend
Be aware of the minimum card spend, typically £10, for purchases.
Explore the top floor for tools
Don't miss the top floor for a fantastic selection of old tools, perfect for woodworkers.
Parking strategy
Utilize the larger car parks a short walk away, as spaces directly in front are often full.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate ample browsing time
With three floors of treasures, give yourself plenty of time to explore every nook and cranny.
Check for minimum card spend
Be aware of the minimum card spend, typically £10, for purchases.
Explore the top floor for tools
Don't miss the top floor for a fantastic selection of old tools, perfect for woodworkers.
Parking strategy
Utilize the larger car parks a short walk away, as spaces directly in front are often full.
Dog-friendly policy clarification
Note that the venue is not dog-friendly, so plan accordingly if you're traveling with pets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Waterside Antiques is a highly recommended destination for antique lovers, praised for its prime riverside location and vast selection across three floors. Visitors appreciate the wide price range, from affordable trinkets to higher-value items, and the curated collections from various dealers, especially French antiques and old tools. However, parking can be a challenge, and the venue is not dog-friendly.
"Nice antique shop in a prime location.. It is an interesting place to browse some of the fascinating items even if you are not looking for anything in particular. Some of the items are not very old but interesting additions to their wide range of antiques.
I am sure the location of the shop has attracted many curious visitors from outside the city. We discovered the shop while looking for the river."
Ronna Fu
"Always a great range of items on sale across several floors. Prices range from £1 to thousands. Something for everyone. I always come away with something even if I only went for a mooch around. The only tricky bit is finding somewhere to park. Don't bother with the spaces in front of the building, they are always full, there are three bigger carparks 5-10 minutes walk away."
Rob Howells
"Reviews and pictures looked amazing, read through the site and there is nothing about it not being dog friendly so drove an hour to take a look - guess what not dog friendly - couldn't even carry him! Lost out on £250 of sales we spent at elsewhere (see other review) - oh hum."
Mark Lawrence
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterside Antiques is located in Ely, Cambridgeshire. It's situated in a picturesque spot near the canal. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is common. Be prepared for parking challenges near the venue itself, with larger car parks a 5-10 minute walk away being a more reliable option.
The shop is in a prime location by the river, making it a point of interest for visitors exploring Ely. Its proximity to the canal and picturesque setting helps in locating it.
Driving is a popular method. However, parking directly in front of the building is often full. It's recommended to use one of the three larger car parks located a 5-10 minute walk from the antiques centre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to enter Waterside Antiques. It's a free-to-browse establishment, allowing visitors to explore its extensive collection without an entry fee.
Opening hours can vary, and it's always best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date information. However, many visitors report enjoying weekday mornings for a less crowded experience.
Yes, there is a minimum card spend of £10 for purchases made at Waterside Antiques. If your purchase is less than this, you'll need to pay with cash.
Unfortunately, Waterside Antiques is not dog-friendly. Visitors planning to bring their pets should make alternative arrangements, as dogs are not permitted inside the premises.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Waterside Antiques offers a vast and varied selection across three floors. You'll find everything from small curiosities and homeware to larger furniture pieces, old tools, and specialty items like French antiques.
The layout is described as a bit messy, which encourages exploration. This means you'll need to delve into different areas to discover unique finds, adding to the treasure-hunting experience.
Prices range widely, from as little as £1 to thousands of pounds, ensuring there's something for every budget. Many visitors find the prices to be reasonable for the items on offer.
Absolutely. Collectors will find a diverse range of items, including a notable selection of old tools on the top floor and specialty French antiques curated by dealers like Jen.
Its prime riverside location, the sheer volume of items spread across three floors, and the curated collections from various dealers contribute to its unique charm. The 'messy' layout also adds to the adventure of discovery.
📸 📸 Photography
While not explicitly forbidden, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and dealers. Many visitors share their finds on social media, so taking photos is generally accepted, especially for personal memories.
The top floor with its tool collection, displays of French antiques, and the general atmosphere of packed shelves offer great photo opportunities. The picturesque setting by the river also provides lovely exterior shots.
There are no specific mentions of restrictions for personal photography. However, for commercial use or professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the management directly to inquire about their policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🛠️ Woodworking Enthusiasts & Collectors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Three Floors
On the top floor, a particular highlight for many is the extensive collection of old tools. This section is a must-visit for woodworking enthusiasts and collectors alike, showcasing a variety of implements that speak to a bygone era of craftsmanship. The variety ensures that whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, you're likely to find something that catches your eye. The pricing across all floors is varied, ranging from very affordable small items to more significant investments, making it accessible to a wide range of shoppers.
Curated Collections and Dealer Insights
These dealer contributions add depth and variety to the shopping experience. It's not just a warehouse of old items; it's a collection of carefully selected pieces, often with stories behind them. The presence of dealers like Jen and those contributing to the tool section means that visitors can find items that are not only old but also possess a certain quality and provenance. This makes Waterside Antiques a destination for those looking for more than just a bargain, but for pieces with character and history.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit