This antiques emporium in Gloucester Docks is well worth a special visit to browse the huge collection of antiques, collectables and miscellanea.
Referred to as Gloucester's No.1 Antiques Emporium, Vic and Shirley Foster will give you a warm welcome as you walk through the door of Upstairs Downstairs, a family run business selling a large variety of antiques, collectables and miscellanea in Gloucester Docks.
Previously run from shop premises in Gloucester City centre, they found that they grew much more quickly than expected and made the decision to make a permanent move to larger premises at Severn Road, alongside Gloucester Docks. What could be more fitting for an antiques business than to look out across the historic Gloucester Docks!
Spread over three floors, they incorporate over twenty dealers selling items such as timepieces, ranging from watches to grandfather clocks; ceramics and pottery from thimbles to large victorian meat plates; classic and pine furniture from pot stands to triple pine wardrobes; a large range of jewellery, toys to remind you of your and even your fathers, childhood; collectables of all types; glassware, silver and so, so much more.
If you are an avid Militaria collector then Upstairs Downstairs will deliver pure joy with the wide range of militaria on offer including a vast collection of coins and medals. Rob will be on hand to provide any advice or answer any questions, having been a keen collector himself since childhood.
A newer addition to this truly wonderful antiques centre at the Docks is the canal art range, such as you see adorning the narrow boats. Alongside the decorative painted jugs, stools and other items that make your boat more homely, are a range of those necessary goods that make your life on water that little bit easier - including coal!
Vic and Shirley Foster have a lifelong love of antiques and often find themselves wondering at the past attached to each piece as it passes through their hands. They are aware that many people feel the same way as they do and this shows in their approach to their visitors.
Vic and Shirley are more than happy for visitors to leisurely wander around without any pressure to buy, but if you do want to ask a question or would like a chat, or even just to say hello, they are never far away.
When you are ready for a break from studying the craftsmanship and beauty of era's past, they have a traditional Old English tea and coffee shop, just up on the vaulted ceiling of the first floor. They are proud that in July 2011, the coffee shop was awarded a ‘five out of five’ Food Hygiene Rating by Gloucester City Council.
If you haven't gone along prepared to buy – possibly you have arrived in your two seater sports car and have your eye on a seven foot wardrobe – or you would prefer delivery, you may even be on holiday here in Gloucester, then do not worry as Upstairs Downstairs offer full UK and worldwide delivery.
If you need a valuation of a piece you own then feel free to drop by or give Vic and Shirley a call. Maybe you have an antique or collectable that you would like to sell, or perhaps a few items. They are happy to discuss this with you.
If you are a trader or buy and sell antiques for a hobby, and are looking for an outlet in which to sell your goods on a permanent basis, then there is room available to let. Call or drop by to discuss how they can be of help to you.
Do you need to have piece restored? Vic and Shirley can assist with this too using fully trained and qualified staff.
Upstairs Downstairs is open from 10am till 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am till 5pm on a Saturday and Sunday. Telephone on 01452 421170 or email vfoster@btconnect.com
2 Severn Road
GLOUCESTER
GL1 2LE
Matthew & James Fenn
Gloucester Couriers