Mrs Leslie Rankine Taylor

If you ever wondered whether a traditional old-style English antiques shop still existed, call at Rankine Taylor Antiques tucked away amidst the mellow Cotswold stone behind the great parish church in Dollar Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire.
     Here a large double-fronted shop extends into numerous showrooms. Each is filled with eclectic collections acquired by Mrs Leslie Rankine Taylor. This year she celebrates 35 years in the Cotswolds following a move from Edinburgh.
     The Scottish influence pervades. Burn's Night is remembered with bagpipes alongside old shinty sticks from the Isle of Skye in one of the regularly changing window displays.
     Topical themes are much anticipated in the town. A 17th century marriage certificate dated 14th February once caught the eye on St.Valentine's Day.
     In the labyrinth of showrooms you will come across areas of special interest. A nautical theme incorporated an old ship's anchor and a naval officer's hat from Lancaster & Son, outfitters of Portsea.

One of the showrooms at Rankine Taylor Antiques in Cirencester

   The bust of an archbishop once presided over a collection of ecclesiastical memorabilia set out on an early carved oak mule chest opposite a quietly ticking longcase clock made by Thomas Blundell of Dublin.
     Elsewhere may be found a Massachusetts basket rocking chair and a child's miniature Victorian garden roller. Truly something for everyone and a customer's car park across the road to ensure a hassle-free visit to one of England's most fascinating antiques shops.
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