Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic New Town, Unicorn Antiques is a legendary antiques shop that has stood the passage of time. Located at 65, Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 a ten-minute walk from Princes’ Street surrounded by other antique stores, art galleries, fashion boutiques and cafes it is a must visit destination for locals and tourists alike. This year, 2019, Unicorn Antiques celebrates its 50th Anniversary, having been established in 1969.
Based in its original location, a former dairy, Unicorn Antiques is filled with pieces that have been carefully selected for authenticity, originality and craftsmanship and are predominantly sourced in Scotland.
Everything and anything that is old, eye-catching and useful can be unearthed. Treasures range from as far back as the early 18th Century to more recent mid-century items. Indeed, you will find everything from antique architectural fixtures and fittings, high quality furniture, cutlery and china, chandeliers, rugs, paintings and historic maps. The shop is designed to encourage you to linger, explore, touch and examine and then return for a second look. There is no rush, and no pressure to buy. And, it doesn’t matter where you live as Unicorn Antiques can deliver throughout the UK, Europe and ship overseas.
Unicorn Antiques is a family business, mother and son, who have trained and studied with some of the foremost antiques dealers in Scotland and enjoy over seven decades of on-the-ground experience between them.
When asked to explain his philosophy when shopping for antiques, David said, “There is no right or wrong way to buy antiques. I would always suggest you buy what you love and not to consider its value. If I was to predict the future trends, perhaps mahogany furniture will make a comeback. Anything from the 1920s continues to be popular.”
Nancy elaborated, “We are always looking for items to sell, but once in a while you discover something that you decide is not for sale, it is for keeping for yourself. I still have a fabulous clockwork Santa Claus, that makes its annual appearance during the festive season. I have never seen anything like it before or since. “
With recycling and sustainability at the top of the agenda for today’s retailers it is little wonder that Unicorn Antiques has ambitious plans and is very optimistic about the future.
As the saying goes, “The Antiques trade is the world’s oldest recycling business.”