Quest · Running

Secret Life of the Auction House

2025

Last aired: S1 E8, Casino Royale, Sweet Shop, Shrovetide Ball · 2025-09-18

Featuring exclusive access, riveting stories, surprising revelations, and jaw-dropping hammer prices, Secret Life of the Auction House goes behind the scenes at one of Britain's busiest auction houses to capture all the drama, passion, and charisma as antiques specialist Charles Hanson and a small army of experts examine, appraise, strategize, and sell to the highest bidder—all while making historic discoveries and keeping an eye out for fakes. Every treasure has a unique story to tell. And with hundreds of thousands of objects coming through the door every year, Charles and the team bring long-forgotten relics, cherished heirlooms, attic discoveries, and metal detector finds to life

Cast

Charles Hanson Charles Hanson

John Thomson Narrator

Season 1

E1 Everest, Chopper, Harry Potter 2025-07-31 · 60 min A behind-the-scenes look at one of Britain's most fascinating auction houses. Featuring a rare Harry Potter paperback and memorabilia from the first ascent of Everest in 1953.

E2 Football Flag, Prison Ledger 2025-08-07 · 60 min The team researches a flag said to have flown during England's 1966 World Cup win. A Victorian book of police mug shots reveals surprising insights.

E3 LV Trunk, Vampire Slayer Kit 2025-08-14 · 60 min A designer trunk found in a junk shop, a 40-year-old slice of royal wedding cake and possible Victorian vampire slaying kit go under the hammer.

E4 Queen Victoria Items, Hand Bills 2025-08-21 · 60 min Queen Victoria's belongings go under the hammer, and music expert Claire handles some legendary Rolling Stones memorabilia.

E5 Peter Stringfellow's Throne, Lego Sets 2025-08-28 · 60 min Charles sells iconic items from the late club owner Peter Stringfellow. Plus, a massive haul of Lego keeps toy valuer Mark busy.

E6 Horseferry Road Furniture, Corgi Cars 2025-09-04 · 60 min A stainless-steel sculpture, a load of antique furniture and a collection of 1960s Corgi toy cars all pose challenges to the logistics team.

E7 Gold Chain, Cinema Posters, Alien Book 2025-09-11 · 60 min Jewellery expert Helen has her hands full with a massive gold chain. Plus, book expert Jim dusts off a rare, 'out of this world' scientific book.

E8 Casino Royale, Sweet Shop, Shrovetide Ball 2025-09-18 · 60 min A first edition James Bond book sets the auction room alight. Plus, a confectionery shop goes under the hammer.

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