Flambards’ Treasures Up for Auction – Own a Piece of Cornwall’s Iconic Attraction

The extraordinary contents of Flambards in Helston are set to go under the hammer in a landmark auction handled by Lay’s Auctioneers. Taking place from 25th to 27th March, this sale offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of one of Cornwall’s most beloved attractions.

A Storied Past, Now Up for Bidding

For nearly 50 years, Flambards captivated visitors of all ages with its immersive historical exhibits. Its famed Victorian Village and Britain in the Blitz installations transported guests back in time, creating cherished memories for generations. However, rising costs and dwindling visitor numbers forced the attraction to close in November last year.

Now, the vast collection of historical artefacts, detailed recreations, and even full-scale aircraft will be sold to collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Highlights from the Auction

With 1,450 lots up for grabs, the auction features remarkable items from Flambards’ extensive displays, including:

Victorian Village Shops

Birch, Birch & Co. Georgian III shop & contents (to be sold in 58 lots)

One of the standout lots is the Birch, Birch & Co. Georgian III shop and its contents, originally located in London’s Angel Court. It includes a fully fitted shopfront, cabinets, shelves, advertising panels, and period shop stock—offered in 58 separate lots.
Estimate: £30-50 up to £10,000

Historic Fire Engine from Cliveden

Photo: Flambards Steam Fire Engine

A Shand Mason horse-drawn fire engine, once owned by The Hon W W Astor of Cliveden, is set to attract collectors of historical vehicles.
Estimate: £15,000-25,000

WWII Willys Jeep

Photo: A World War II period Willys MB Military Jeep

A World War II Willys MB Military Jeep, complete with its original 9-slot grille, canvas tonneau, and spare fuel can, is expected to draw significant interest.
Estimate: £10,000-12,000

Beyond these highlights, the auction includes the full-sized Concorde flight deck and cabin, the Avro Shackleton cockpit, and an array of wartime memorabilia and artefacts.

Viewing and Auction Details

Flambards will open its doors for public viewing of the collection before the sale:

📅 Viewing Dates:
🗓️ Saturday 22nd March – Monday 24th March, 10am-4pm
🎟️ Timed entry by pre-purchased £10 ticket (Details to follow)
📍 Flambards, Clodgey Lane, Helston, Cornwall, TR13 0QA

📅 Auction Dates:
🗓️ Tuesday 25th March – Thursday 27th March, 10am start daily
📍 Lay’s Auctioneers, The Penzance Auction House, Alverton, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 4RE
🌍 Global online bidding available

Collections for purchased items will take place from Flambards by timed appointment, with options for postage on smaller lots.

A Unique Opportunity

David Lay, director and founder of Lay’s Auctioneers, reflected on the significance of the sale:

“The whole is so much greater than the sum of its parts. To walk the streets of The Flambards Village is to be transported to a halcyon past… However, that is the nature of things, and from this auction, other collections will be improved, new collections will be formed. This collection will be an inspiration.”

With such a vast and historically significant collection on offer, the auction is expected to attract bidders from across the globe.

For auction details, catalogue, and bidding registration, visit www.davidlay.co.uk.

Photo: W.C.White’s, the extraordinary ‘Time Capsule chemists’

Photo: Borthwick’s the Butchers in the Victorian Village