Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Unique Antique Treasures in Bury St Edmunds
Established in 2016 by Marcia, Smoking Monkey Antiques is a cherished destination in Bury St Edmunds for those seeking unique historical treasures. Our shop combines decades of expertise in antiquarian fabrics, ceramics, and dollhouses with a passion for preserving the stories behind each item. Located at 55 St Johns Street, we offer an eclectic collection ranging from rural bygones to ecclesiastical artifacts, catering to collectors and casual browsers alike. Marcia's background in textile restoration and her eye for rare antiquities ensure every visitor discovers something extraordinary. We pride ourselves on creating an immersive experience where the past comes alive through carefully curated objects.Our inventory includes vintage books, antique china, and decorative boxes, reflecting both practical and artistic heritage. Open Wednesday to Saturday, we welcome international visitors and local regulars to explore our ever-changing stock. The shop's namesake, Jacko the smoking monkey, symbolises our commitment to unconventional charm and historical intrigue. With a focus on accessibility and education, we aim to make antiques approachable for all tastes and budgets. Our dedication to quality and authenticity has made us a trusted name in the East Anglian antiques scene.
Services
Antique books
Vintage prints
Ceramics
Dollhouses
Ecclesiastical artifacts
Textile restoration
Decorative boxes
Rural bygones
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We offer expert knowledge in antiquarian fabrics and ceramics spanning three decades
- Our collection includes rare dollhouses and associated furnishings from various eras
- We provide an eclectic mix of items catering to both decorative and historical interests
- Our inventory changes regularly with new discoveries from trusted antique sources
- We combine professional expertise with a welcoming atmosphere for all customers
What people say
Unique collection
Knowledgeable staff
Charming atmosphere
Interesting finds
Expert advice
Services
Antique books
Our collection of antiquarian books spans rare first editions to decorative cloth-bound volumes. Each item is carefully preserved and authenticated, appealing to collectors and bibliophiles. We specialise in 19th and early 20th century publications with particular focus on illustrated works and regional histories.
Ceramics
We offer an extensive range of antique ceramics from Staffordshire figures to decorative plates. Our selection includes both utilitarian and ornamental pieces from various periods. Each item is checked for authenticity and condition, with particular emphasis on pre-1940 British and European manufacturers.
Dollhouses
Our vintage dollhouses and accessories represent different historical periods and styles. We stock both complete sets and individual furnishings, carefully restored to maintain original character. The collection includes rare pieces from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, complete with provenance details.
Ecclesiastical artifacts
We specialise in religious antiques including altar candlesticks, crucifixes, and statuary. Our collection features both Catholic and Anglican items from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Each piece comes with documentation about its origin and historical significance.
Textile restoration
Marcia's expertise extends to restoring antique textiles using traditional techniques. We offer visible mending and embroidery services that preserve historical integrity while enhancing aesthetic value. Our methods use period-appropriate materials and techniques passed down through generations.
People
Marcia
Owner & Antiques Expert
Marcia has operated Smoking Monkey Antiques since 2016, specialising in antiquarian fabrics and ceramics. With decades of experience collecting and restoring vintage items, she brings deep knowledge of provenance and period details to every customer interaction.
Questions
What types of antiques do you specialise in?
We focus on antiquarian books, ceramics, ecclesiastical artifacts, and vintage dollhouses with particular emphasis on British items from the 18th to early 20th centuries.
Do you offer restoration services?
Yes, we provide textile restoration using traditional techniques, specialising in visible mending and embroidery that preserves historical integrity while enhancing aesthetic value.
Are there parking facilities nearby?
The shop is in Bury St Edmunds town centre with multiple public car parks within 500 metres. Blue Badge holders can find designated spaces on St Johns Street.
Can I sell antiques to you?
We welcome potential consignments. Please contact us via email with clear photographs and details about your items for initial assessment by our experts.
Do you have regular stock updates?
Our inventory changes weekly as new acquisitions arrive. Follow our Instagram page for daily updates on new arrivals and featured items from our collection.
