Adi Higham has not publicly disclosed the name or identity of a first wife, as he has spent the majority of his public-facing career in a long-term partnership with Tara Franklin. While Higham has mentioned his children in various interviews, specifically recalling his early days in the trade “popping back and forth across the channel with his kids,” he has remained strictly private regarding his marital history prior to his relationship with Tara. In 2026, Higham is widely recognized as being “married” to or in a committed partnership with Tara Franklin, an expert in French vintage fabrics and his co-director at Hoof Brocante. Together, they form a powerhouse duo in the European antiques market, operating between their headquarters in East Sussex and the Normandy borders in France. His public persona as the “larger-than-life” dealer on the BBC’s The Bidding Room focuses on his professional expertise and his current life with Tara, leaving any previous domestic arrangements as a matter of private record.
The Partnership with Tara Franklin
While many fans search for a “first wife,” Adi Higham’s most significant and visible relationship is with his current partner and business collaborator.
Who is Tara Franklin?
Tara Franklin is an accomplished antiques dealer and a renowned expert in French vintage fabrics. In 2026, she is the creative force alongside Adi at Hoof Brocante, where her “amazing eye” for textiles and decorative items complements Adi’s passion for mechanical objects and toys. The couple frequently judges upcycling challenges and hosts “brocante spectaculars,” showcasing their joint expertise to a global audience.
Co-Directing Hoof Brocante
Hoof Brocante is more than just a shop; it is the physical manifestation of Adi and Tara’s shared life. Operating out of East Sussex, the business specializes in sourcing unique items from France, a process Adi describes as deeply romantic. Their business relationship is built on a “buy-and-build” strategy where Tara’s influence has broadened Adi’s buying style, moving him into areas he might have previously overlooked.
Family Life and Children
Higham has occasionally offered glimpses into his role as a father, though he keeps his children out of the spotlight.
Early Days in the Trade
In nostalgic reflections on his career, Adi has spoken warmly about the “early days” when he would travel with his children to French markets. These trips were foundational, not just for his business but for his family dynamic, exposing his kids to the “bonkers” world of antiques dealing from a young age. By 2026, while his children are now older, they remain a private but essential part of his life story.
Balancing Fame and Fatherhood
Transitioning from a full-time dealer to a BBC star on The Bidding Room changed the family’s public profile. Adi has credited the support of his family, particularly Tara, in helping him manage the “madness” of television fame. He emphasizes the importance of being “the same person on and off screen,” a philosophy that helps maintain a grounded home life.
High-Profile Challenges and Resilience
The mid-2020s brought significant personal strain to Adi and Tara, testing their partnership in the public eye.
The Neighbour Dispute of 2023-2025
Adi Higham and Tara Franklin were recently involved in a long-running and widely reported legal dispute with former neighbors in East Sussex. The conflict, which involved allegations of stalking and harassment, was described by the couple as “two and a half years of utter hell.” By late 2025, several matters were dismissed, providing what Adi described as a “huge relief” to his family.
Mental Health Advocacy
Following the stress of their legal battles, Adi has become more vocal about mental health and well-being. He openly discusses the impact the dispute had on his and Tara’s health, using his platform to promote kindness and support within the antiques community. This openness has endeared him to fans, who view him as a resilient figure who prioritizes family and partner support during times of crisis.
Practical Information and Business Details
For those looking to engage with Adi and Tara’s professional work in 2026, here are the essential details.
Hoof Brocante HQ
Location: East Sussex, UK (with a secondary base on the Normandy borders, France).
Specialties: Mechanical objects, vintage toys, French textiles, and “bonkers” curiosities.
Opening Events: They regularly host “Brocante Spectaculars” which often include barbecues and live demonstrations.
Media Appearances
The Bidding Room: Catch Adi on BBC iPlayer, where he appears as a resident dealer.
Guest Speaking: Adi is available for talent activation through platforms like Pickstar, focusing on antiques, mental health, and travel.
FAQs
Who is Adi Higham’s first wife?
Adi Higham has never publicly named a first wife; he is currently in a long-term, high-profile partnership with Tara Franklin.
Is Adi Higham married to Tara Franklin?
The couple often refers to each other as partners or “wife/husband” in professional contexts, though they have kept the specific legal details of their marriage private.
Does Adi Higham have children?
Yes, Adi has mentioned having children and taking them on sourcing trips to France in the early years of his career.
What does Tara Franklin do?
Tara is an antiques expert specializing in French fabrics and serves as the co-director of Hoof Brocante.
Are Adi and Tara still together in 2026?
Yes, as of early 2026, they remain partners in both life and business, continuing to run Hoof Brocante together.
Where does Adi Higham live now?
He lives between East Sussex, UK, and a property on the Normandy borders in France.
Was Adi Higham ever divorced?
There are no public records or statements confirming a previous marriage or divorce for Adi Higham.
What happened with the court case in 2025?
The legal dispute with his former neighbors was largely dismissed or resolved by late 2025, bringing an end to what Adi called a “nightmare” period.
Does his family appear on The Bidding Room?
No, his family typically stays off-camera, although Tara is well-known to the antiques trade and often works behind the scenes.
How did Adi and Tara meet?
While the exact details are private, they met through the antiques trade, likely during their frequent travels between the UK and France.
What is Tara Franklin’s specialty?
She is specifically known as an expert in vintage French textiles and decorative antiques.
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