Looking for a free day out this summer?

Hansons’ grade-II listed Staffordshire saleroom is the perfect location – and you can get your treasures valued at the same time – writes TV auctioneer Charles Hanson. It is now several years since we expanded Derby-based Hansons Auctioneers into Staffordshire, when I purchased the Georgian mansion Bishton Hall in Wolseley Bridge.

You might know me from telly programmes like Bargain Hunt, Flog It! and Antiques Road Trip since 2002. But TV is only half the story.

Because, for me, the real career highlights are not in front of the television cameras, they are on the rostrum and discovering hidden treasures. Nothing gives me more pleasure than unearthing forgotten heirlooms at valuation days.

When people bring in what they think are worthless bits of costume jewellery their jaws drop when I tell them that it could be worth thousands. I knew Bishton Hall would be the perfect backdrop to stage country house sales and the ideal setting to showcase fine art and antiques – as well as find them.

Every last Sunday of the month we host a ‘Super Sunday’ lifestyle sale at the hall – with the next on May 31 and then June 28 with viewing on the Saturday before from 10am-4pm and on the day of the sale from 10am.

Midweek our team of experts also hosts free valuations in the main building.

So if you’ve ever wondered about the story or value behind a treasured piece of jewellery, this is the perfect opportunity.

Kerri Keeling FGA DGA, our head of jewellery, silver and watches offers her expertise Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm with no appointment necessary. Whether it’s an inherited heirloom, an old jewellery box discovery or something you simply feel curious about, you’ll receive clear, professional advice.

Kerri is a fully qualified gemmologist, with specialist expertise in diamonds, coloured gemstones, antique and vintage jewellery, silver and watches. She brings both knowledge and careful attention to every piece she examines. After a visit to Kerri you can carry on exploring this wonderful location.

The stunning grade II-listed building dates back the mid 18th century and, for a history fanatic like me with a passion for architecture, it is nothing short of magical.

Visitors can enjoy a stroll in the beautiful surrounding gardens, taking in the superb Temple Garden, which features one of the best Doric screens in the country.

Best of all in these cash-strapped times, the whole experience – even the parking – is free.

If shopping is your thing, then the courtyard has some of the best boutiques around, housing even a local gin distillery.

And when you are ready for a sit down, the dog-friendly Sparrows tearoom is open every day from 10am-3pm offering one of the best – and biggest – afternoon teas I have every had.

So if you are looking for a free, dog-friendly day out for all the family take a trip to Bishton and, who knows, you might also discover you are sitting on an auction goldmine. If you wish to contact Kerri ahead of your visit, you can email kkeeling@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk or call 07702 084399. Bishton Hall and Garden is located at Bellamour Lane, Stafford, ST17 0XN.

Charles Hanson