Newark's International Antiques and Collectors Fair is a treasure hunter's dream

Every other month, dealers and collectors from around the world head for the edge of Newark. The Newark International Antiques and Collectors Fair, held at the Newark and Nottinghamshire Showground, describes itself as the largest event of its kind in Europe, and it has been a fixture in the town since 1985.

The scale is something to behold. With up to 1,500 stands, the fair offers an extraordinary range, from antique furniture and silver to delicate ceramics, vintage clothing, toys and jewellery. Collectors can hunt for rare coins, stamps, sports cards, clocks, glassware, Royal Doulton figurines and vinyl records, and those who love French style will find plenty of brocante too.

The fair welcomes everyone from trade buyers and seasoned collectors to curious shoppers and international buyers. Its friendly dealers are happy to share their knowledge, and the organisers' advice to visitors is simple: "The earlier you come the more dealers you will see!"

There is a strong sustainability message behind the fair as well. Buying antique furniture, the organisers point out, is a way to create a timeless interior while leaving a smaller carbon footprint and supporting small businesses.

The showground itself has an interesting history. It occupies part of the former RAF Winthorpe airfield, which was bought in 1964 by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society, and it hosts a busy calendar of other events through the year.

Getting there is easy. The showground sits beside the junction of the A1, A46 and A17, and Newark Northgate station, on the East Coast Main Line, is about ten minutes away by car, with London around 90 minutes away by train.

It is a friendly day out too. Accompanied under-16s go free, dogs are welcome on a short lead, and tickets can be bought online or at the gate.

Newark itself is home to several antique shops and centres, so there is plenty more to explore in town. Upcoming dates and ticket details are on the IACF website.