David Harper: The Life, Career and Legacy of Britain’s Beloved Antiques Expert
Who Is David Harper?
David Harper is one of the United Kingdom’s most recognisable figures in the world of antiques, art, and television. Known widely for his vibrant personality, encyclopaedic knowledge of historical objects, and distinctive presenting style, he has built a remarkable career spanning more than four decades. From BBC favourites such as Bargain Hunt, Antiques Road Trip and Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is, to his thriving work as an artist, speaker and media trainer, David Harper remains a multi-talented public figure who continues to inspire audiences across Britain and beyond.
Born in 1967, David Harper’s age today places him among the most experienced voices in British antiques broadcasting. His journey from childhood collector to seasoned antiques expert is a compelling story of passion, craftsmanship and determination.
David Harper’s Early Life and Passion for Antiques
A Childhood Fascinated by History
David Harper’s lifelong connection with antiques began astonishingly early. He was collecting objects from the age of five, buying his first pieces at nine, and trading professionally by the age of eighteen. His curiosity for history, craftsmanship and storytelling shaped the very foundations of his future career.
Growing up between Middlesbrough and periods spent abroad, he developed a rich understanding of cultures, historical artefacts and artistic design. These experiences shaped the deep and intuitive sense of history that now defines his reputation as a respected antiques expert.
David Harper’s Antiques Career – Over 40 Years in the Trade
From Collector to International Dealer
David Harper’s career in antiques spans more than 40 years, during which he has built expertise across a wide range of periods and styles. His professional experience includes:
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Working with antiquities and museum-quality pieces
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Buying and selling 20th-century British design
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Running restoration projects
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Producing replica antiques
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Shipping 40-foot containers of antiques globally
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Importing traditional furniture from the Far East into Europe
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Exhibiting at national antique fairs
His business, David Harper Antiques, continues to handle valuable items for private clients, placing significant works into the most appropriate auction houses across the UK to achieve the best results. He also operates an antiques centre and a vintage tea room in Barnard Castle, County Durham.
Why David Harper Is Considered a Leading Antiques Expert
Across the industry, David Harper is admired for his breadth of expertise, straightforward approach, and ability to make history engaging and enjoyable. His talent lies not just in identifying valuable objects, but in explaining their stories, cultural importance and craftsmanship in a way that captivates both collectors and general audiences. This skill has made him a favourite on television for many years.
David Harper on Television – A BBC Favourite
The Breakthrough on Channel 4
Before his long association with the BBC, David Harper made his television debut on Channel 4 as the presenter of Natural Born Dealers in 2005. The programme showcased his charismatic screen presence and his ability to educate viewers while keeping them entertained.
BBC Success – Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip
David soon moved to the BBC, where he became one of the most recognisable experts in British daytime television. His major appearances include:
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Bargain Hunt
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Antiques Road Trip
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Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
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Cash in the Attic
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Flog It!
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Features on Countryfile, Inside Out, and Through the Keyhole
His energy, humour, and enthusiasm quickly set him apart. Whether helping contestants on Bargain Hunt or travelling the country in classic cars for Antiques Road Trip, David Harper’s knowledge and authenticity made him a core part of the BBC antiques family.
David Harper Bargain Hunt – His Role on the Iconic Show
David appeared on Bargain Hunt for many years, guiding teams through antique shops and auction rooms with his characteristic warmth and quick wit. His experience helped contestants understand markets, spot hidden gems and enjoy the thrill of buying and selling.
Why David Harper Left Bargain Hunt
In 2020, after 15 years, David Harper announced that he was leaving Bargain Hunt. His departure was by choice — not due to illness or controversy. He explained that it was time to explore new creative avenues, including:
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Theatre tours
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Public speaking
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Painting and art exhibitions
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YouTube antiques and history videos
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Media training work
Although no longer a permanent expert on the series, he remains closely connected to BBC antiques programming and occasionally appears in related projects.
David Harper the Artist – A Creative Career Beyond Television
A Professional Painter Since 2010
David is also a highly accomplished artist whose paintings are exhibited and sold across the UK and the United States. His work is often bold, colourful, humorous and full of character, reflecting his storytelling personality. He takes commissions for:
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Classic car portraits
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Architectural paintings
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Interior scenes
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Property commissions
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Bespoke artworks for collectors
His Instagram, under the name @davidharperart, showcases his vibrant artworks and his process as a painter.
Art, Antiques and Storytelling
What makes his artwork unique is the way it blends humour, history and imagination. His creative world enables fans to see a different side of him — not just the antiques expert, but the storyteller, illustrator and imaginative artist.
Public Speaking, Media Training and Auctioneering
A Highly Requested After-Dinner Speaker
Since 2013, David has been in demand as a professional speaker. His talks combine comedy, fascinating stories from the antiques trade, behind-the-scenes television insights, and engaging historical narratives. Organisations often praise his charisma and ability to capture a room.
A Record-Breaking Charity Auctioneer
One of David Harper’s standout achievements is setting a world record by auctioning a dinner with Sir Alex Ferguson for £170,000 at the Natural History Museum in London. His skill as an auctioneer is respected across corporate, charity and private events.
Media Trainer and Confidence Coach
Since 2023, he has offered media training in London, helping individuals and teams:
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Improve public speaking
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Gain camera confidence
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Learn presentation techniques
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Deliver compelling messages
This side of his career continues to grow as businesses increasingly seek engaging communicators.
David Harper’s Personal Life – Family, Marriage and Daughter
Is David Harper Married?
Yes. David Harper is married.
David Harper Wife – Meet Wendy Harper
David’s wife, Wendy Harper, has been his partner since 1997. Although she keeps a low public profile, she has been a constant support throughout his long career.
David Harper Daughter – Henrietta “Hetti” Harper
The couple have one daughter, Henrietta Harper, often called Hetti, born in 1996. She is a musician based in London and the lead singer of the band Tiffany Twisted. David has shared affectionate father-daughter moments on social media, including the well-known New Year’s Eve post that received hundreds of comments.
David Harper’s Legacy in British Antiques and Television
With a career spanning over forty years, David Harper has become a familiar and trusted figure in British culture. His contributions across antiques, television, art and public speaking demonstrate a rare combination of expertise, creativity and personality. Whether on television, at auction, in front of a crowd or behind the canvas, he brings enthusiasm and integrity to everything he does.
From Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip to his flourishing artistic work and media training, David Harper continues to influence and inspire audiences. His story reflects dedication, passion and an enduring love for the world of antiques and history — a legacy that will continue for years to come.
