Business Details
28 Years
experience
Leading Auction House in the Cotswolds
The Cotswold Auction has been a trusted name in the auction and valuation industry since its establishment in 1998. Our origins trace back to the late 1800s through the legacy of Hobbs & Chambers, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Estate Agents, whose antique furniture, paintings, and books formed the core of early sales. We specialise in auctioning a diverse range of items, including fine art, antiques, collectables, and household contents, attracting buyers globally. With two salerooms in Cirencester and Cheltenham, we combine historical expertise with modern practices, offering services such as probate valuations, insurance inventories, and house clearance.Our team of RICS and NAVA qualified professionals brings decades of combined experience, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and exceptional client service. We pride ourselves on transparency, efficiency, and a commitment to maximising returns for sellers while providing buyers with unparalleled access to unique items. Our dedication to professionalism is reflected in our adherence to strict anti-money laundering regulations and our focus on client satisfaction through clear communication and reliable service delivery.
Services
Auction Sales
Valuations
Probate Services
House Clearance
Online Catalogues
Condition Reports
International Bidding
Collection Appraisals
Estate Sales
Specialist Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 35 years of combined experience in fine arts valuation
- Specialist sales attract global collectors and buyers
- Two dedicated salerooms in Cirencester and Cheltenham
- RICS and NAVA qualified professional valuers
- Efficient three-and-a-half-week payment process post-sale
Associations and certifications
- RICS
- NAVA
What people say
Professional and impressive service
Detailed condition reports
Exceeded expectations
Painless and enjoyable process
Thorough research and descriptions
Services
Auction Sales
We conduct specialist auctions for antiques, fine art, and collectables at our Cirencester and Cheltenham salerooms. Our auctions attract international buyers through online bidding platforms, offering competitive pricing and global exposure. Sellers benefit from our extensive marketing network and three-week payment turnaround post-sale.
Valuation Services
Our RICS-qualified experts provide formal and informal valuations for insurance, probate, or sale purposes. Free weekly valuation mornings are available, with home visits for large collections. We specialise in antiques, artwork, and estate assessments across Gloucestershire and surrounding counties.
Probate Assistance
We offer comprehensive probate services including Inheritance Tax valuations and estate division support. Our team works closely with solicitors and executors to assess asset values, manage house clearances, and facilitate efficient sales of inherited items with professional discretion.
House Clearance
We coordinate complete property clearances for executors or homeowners, handling item removal, valuation, and auction. Our trusted partners manage logistics while we ensure maximum returns through specialist sales, with proceeds paid directly to clients.
Condition Reports
Detailed condition reports are provided for absentee bidders, including photographs and damage descriptions. These reports help buyers make informed decisions and reflect our commitment to transparency in auction processes.
People
Elizabeth Poole
Company Director
Fellow of the RICS with 35 years' experience in fine arts valuation. Qualified in 1988, she continues to lead auction operations and client relations at The Cotswold Auction.
Lindsey Braune
Company Director
Chartered Art and Antiques Surveyor with RICS qualification since 1984. Holds a Modern Languages degree from Oxford University and oversees auction management and valuation standards.
Niall Fry
Auction Room Manager
Experienced auctioneer with a career spanning multiple salerooms. Notable achievement includes constructing a woolly mammoth exhibit at Summers Place. Manages daily auction operations and client valuations.
Louise Phelps
Consultant and Cataloguer
Over 20 years' experience in international auctions, formerly directing Christie's Ceramics and Glass Department. Specialises in cataloguing and valuing high-profile collections for the company.
Jocelyn Weeks
Consultant and Auctioneer
MRICS qualified surveyor with gemology certification. Founded Wessex Auction Rooms and brings extensive experience in cataloguing diverse items from antiques to modern collectables.
Questions
What types of items do you auction?
We specialise in antiques, fine art, collectables, jewellery, books, textiles, and household contents through regular specialist sales.
How can I get items valued?
We offer free weekly valuation mornings in Cheltenham and Cirencester, or home visits for large/valuable items by appointment.
What payment methods do you accept?
Payments must be made by bank transfer or debit card, with proceeds paid within three and a half weeks post-sale.
Do you handle probate valuations?
Yes, we provide sympathetic probate services including Inheritance Tax valuations and estate division assistance.
Can I bid online?
Yes, we offer live online bidding through our website and partner platforms with real-time auction access.
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