Business Details
Trusted Auction Services in Cumbria
Established in 1818, our auction house has built a reputation for excellence spanning three centuries. We specialise in a diverse range of collectables and antiques, offering expert valuations, auctions, and house clearance services. Our team of specialists brings decades of combined experience in numismatics, philately, fine art, and vintage collectables. We pride ourselves on providing a professional yet approachable service, combining traditional expertise with modern online auction platforms. Our commitment to transparency is evident in our clear pricing structure and detailed condition reports.With purpose-built showrooms in Cumbria, we serve clients locally, nationally, and internationally through our weekly timed auctions. Our WES Quality Mark accreditation demonstrates our dedication to industry standards. We offer comprehensive services including probate valuations, insurance assessments, and sympathetic house clearances, supported by a dedicated packing and shipping team. Our growing departments reflect our adaptability to market demands while maintaining our core values of integrity and expertise.
Services
Antique Auctions
Coin Valuations
House Clearance
Online Bidding
Probate Services
Stamp Auctions
Fine Art Sales
Vintage Collectables
Jewellery Valuations
Wine Auctions
Highlights and features
- We offer over 200 years of auction expertise across 20+ specialist departments
- Our team includes Royal Numismatic Society fellows and specialist valuers
- We provide free condition reports and transparent pricing structures
- Our packing service has received industry recognition for excellence
- We operate weekly timed auctions with global online bidding access
Associations and certifications
- WES Quality Mark
What people say
Superb delivery performance
Beautifully packed items
Professional and speedy arrival
Excellent service
Reasonably priced postage
Services
Antique Auctions
We specialise in weekly timed antique auctions covering 20+ categories. Our online platform allows global bidding access while maintaining traditional auction values. Clients benefit from expert cataloguing, condition reports, and marketing to our international buyer network.
House Clearance
Our professional house clearance service handles probate and estate sales with sensitivity. We offer item valuation, transportation, and auction services. This eco-friendly solution helps avoid landfill while potentially covering clearance costs through auction proceeds.
Valuation Services
We provide free online valuations and in-person assessments for antiques and collectables. Our specialists offer probate, insurance, and tax planning valuations compliant with UK regulations. Valuations include detailed reports and market analysis.
Online Bidding
Our online bidding platform enables participation in auctions from anywhere. The system supports absentee bids, live bidding, and auto-bid functions. This digital solution maintains auction integrity while expanding market reach for sellers.
Packing Services
Our dedicated packing team ensures safe delivery of purchased items. We use specialist materials and techniques to protect fragile items. The service includes insurance and options for national/international delivery through trusted partners.
People
Bill Nelson
Saleroom Manager
With over 8 years leading our team, Bill brings extensive auctioneering experience. He manages daily operations and ensures our growth maintains quality standards while mentoring junior staff.
Simon Thompson
Assistant Manager
A 22-year industry veteran, Simon oversees valuations and mentors team members. His expertise in quality antiques and probate services makes him a key contact for complex estate assessments.
Ralph Sutton
Coin Specialist
Fellow of the Royal Numismatic Society, Ralph brings deep currency expertise. He specialises in British and world coinage, offering valuations informed by decades of numismatic research and market analysis.
Tony Godfree
Medals Specialist
Military history expert with 40+ years in Lancashire. Tony contributes specialist knowledge on medals and militaria, combining academic research with practical valuation experience for our defence collectables department.
Jackie Rothwell
Jewellery Valuer
Leading our jewellery section with growing success, Jackie combines market knowledge with a passion for antique pieces. Her expertise ensures accurate valuations and successful auction outcomes for fine jewellery consignments.
Questions
How do I register for online auctions?
Visit www.the-saleroom.com to register for our timed auctions. You'll need to provide basic contact details and payment information to participate.
What items can I sell through your auctions?
We accept antiques, collectables, fine art, jewellery, vintage items, and specialist collections across 20+ departments. Contact us for a free valuation to determine suitability.
How are auction fees calculated?
Buyers pay 22.8% commission (including VAT) plus online fees. Sellers pay 22.5% commission plus £5 lot fees. All charges include photography and insurance.
Can I get a valuation without selling?
Yes, we offer free online valuations. For detailed probate or insurance reports, fees start at £50 for comprehensive assessments with market analysis.
What are your viewing hours?
Open viewing is available Wednesday-Friday 10am-4pm. Specialist valuers are available during these times to provide additional information about auction items.
How does the house clearance service work?
We assess items for auction potential, handle transportation, and provide sympathetic clearance for non-saleable items. Proceeds from auctioned items can offset clearance costs.
Reviews (1)
David Phelan
Feb 22, 2026
Report
Most of the time they cant be faulted. If you only view online you may be disappointed if you win an item unseen. Sometimes slow with condition reports They will help you to load items bought. Never sold so cant comment on that side. But I have used 1818. For numerous years and will continue to use them. Most problems are down to bidding without viewing and being disappointed. Thats not their fault
