Charles Hanson is currently continuing his successful career as a television antiques expert and managing director of Hansons Auctioneers following his full acquittal in February 2025. After a high-profile three-week trial at Derby Crown Court, a jury found Hanson not guilty of all charges involving allegations of coercive control and assault. The 46-year-old expert, widely recognized for his roles on BBC’s Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, officially returned to television screens in May 2025, receiving significant support from viewers.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the latest developments in Charles Hanson’s life, his triumphant return to the BBC, the expansion of his auction business across the United Kingdom, and the details of his recent legal vindication. You will also find practical information on how to attend his auctions and a detailed FAQ section addressing the most common searches regarding his personal and professional status.
Recent Legal Verdict and Trial Outcome
In February 2025, Charles Hanson was unanimously cleared of all domestic abuse allegations at Derby Crown Court. The charges, which included coercive and controlling behavior and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, were dismissed after a trial that lasted three weeks.
During the proceedings, the jury deliberated for approximately four and a half hours before delivering “not guilty” verdicts on all counts. Hanson expressed immense relief outside the court, stating that “the truth has finally come out” after what he described as a “tumultuous” 18-month period.
Return to BBC Television Appearances
Following his legal vindication, Charles Hanson made a much-anticipated return to Bargain Hunt in May 2025. His first appearance back on the show featured him leading an auction at Bishton Hall, where fans greeted his return with overwhelming positivity on social media.
Beyond Bargain Hunt, Hanson has also resumed filming for Antiques Road Trip. His presence on these long-running BBC programs continues to be a staple of daytime television, as he remains one of the most popular and charismatic experts in the industry.
Growth of Hansons Auctioneers and Valuers
Charles Hanson’s business, Hansons Auctioneers, has continued to thrive, with the company operating several major salerooms throughout Derbyshire, London, and Staffordshire. The firm recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of high-profile sales and record-breaking valuations.
The auction house has expanded its reach with specialized departments for coins, militaria, and jewelry. Notable recent sales under Hanson’s leadership include rare historic medals and high-value Chinese porcelain, maintaining the firm’s reputation as a premier destination for collectors.
Professional Speaking and Charity Work
In addition to his TV and business commitments, Charles Hanson is highly active as a charity auctioneer and keynote speaker. He frequently lends his expertise to fundraising events for organizations like SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society), a cause close to his heart.
Hanson’s public speaking engagements often cover the “theatre of the auction room” and the thrill of the find. He is known for his engaging storytelling and his ability to maximize fundraising through his energetic and humorous style on the rostrum.
Personal Life and Future Outlook
Charles Hanson was born in Holbrook, Derbyshire, in 1978 and has spent the majority of his life immersed in the world of history and antiques. While his recent years were marked by legal challenges and personal changes, he has stated he is now focused on “readjusting” and moving forward with his life.
He continues to reside in Derbyshire and is dedicated to his two children. Hanson has often credited his parents for their unwavering support during his recent trial, and he remains a prominent and respected figure in the UK’s antiques community.
Practical Information for Auction Visitors
Auction Locations and Dates
Hansons Auctioneers operates primarily out of the Heage Lane Saleroom in Etwall, Derbyshire. They also hold regular events at Bishton Hall in Staffordshire and their Richmond saleroom in London. Auctions typically occur multiple times per month, covering everything from general household items to fine art.
Attending a Valuation Day
Free valuation days are held weekly at most Hansons locations. No prior booking is usually required for small items, though specialist appointments are recommended for larger collections or high-value items like jewelry and silver.
Bidding and Buying
You can bid in person, by phone, or online via the Hansons live bidding platform. There is a standard buyer’s premium (usually around 25% plus VAT) added to the hammer price of all lots, so it is important to factor this into your budget.
Early Career Rise
Charles Hanson began his auctioneering journey in Derbyshire, qualifying young and building a reputation for spotting undervalued gems. By his early 20s, he led sales at Hansons Auctioneers, his family firm founded in 1974, handling everything from Regency furniture to modern pop culture items. His charisma shone through at local markets, drawing crowds with energetic bids.
This foundation propelled him into television. Producers spotted his talent during a routine auction, leading to debut spots on BBC’s Bargain Hunt around 2003. Over two decades, he became a fixture, traveling the UK to spots like Newark and Lichfield, turning £300 budgets into £1,000+ profits.
Bargain Hunt Highlights
Hanson starred in over 200 Bargain Hunt episodes, famous for bold buys like a £1 silver brooch resold for £800. Filming spanned 30 UK locations yearly, with challenges in places like Margate’s antique arcades during summer peaks. His on-screen partnership with Tim Wonnacott emphasized strategy, teaching viewers haggle tactics.
Memorable moments include a 2018 episode where he nabbed a Victorian scent bottle for £22, fetching £450 at auction. Off-camera, he mentored juniors, sharing tips on spotting fakes via hallmarks and patina. These runs solidified his status as antiques TV royalty.
Iconic Bargain Wins
Top wins feature a 2012 Art Deco clock bought for £50, sold for £5,200 in Derby. Another standout: a WWII medal trio for £120, realizing £4,000. Hanson attributes success to research, often citing Spink catalogs for valuation.
Antiques Road Trip Return
Charles Hanson news exploded in late 2025 with his Antiques Road Trip comeback announcement on December 2. Absent since 2023, he teams with Roo Irvine for series 24, premiering Monday, December 8 at 4:30 PM on BBC One. The episode kicks off in classic road trip style, scouring northern England for profits.
Filming wrapped amid mild 13°C weather, despite a “nightmare” phone glitch delaying posts. Fans flooded his X account with 52,000 followers, calling it the week’s best news. Expect routes from York to Edinburgh, with Hanson predicting high-stakes buys in militaria.
Legal Challenges Timeline
Hanson faced charges in December 2024 after a domestic incident, including assault and coercive behavior allegations. Arrested late 2023, he appeared at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court on January 10, 2025. Bail conditions limited the media, but he maintained innocence throughout.
The trial peaked in February 2025 with a not guilty verdict on all seven counts, clearing his name fully. Supporters rallied online, viewing it as a personal ordeal. Post-verdict, he focused on family and work, emerging stronger by April 2025.
Court Details Explained
Proceedings detailed two actual bodily harm claims and two beating assaults, spanning years. Evidence reviews lasted weeks, with Hanson testifying on context. Acquittal on February 14, 2025, sparked relief, allowing BBC discussions in return.
Not Guilty Verdict Impact
The February 2025 not guilty ruling reshaped Charles Hanson news positively. BBC paused his slots pending outcome, but cleared status opened doors. By April, he teased theater reunions, signaling full recovery.
Public reaction split initially but unified in support post-verdict. Ratings for similar shows dipped without him, per viewer polls. Hanson shared gratitude on socials, vowing deeper family focus alongside career.
BBC Screen Comeback
Hanson’s BBC return dominates 2026 headlines, starting with Antiques Road Trip winter run. Episodes air weekdays, iPlayer-available, covering 10+ locations like Wales borders. Roo Irvine partnership promises banter-filled hunts.
Producers confirmed a multi-series deal by January 2026, eyeing Bargain Hunt slots too. Filming schedules align with auction peaks, balancing TV and business. Viewers expect his signature optimism amid hunts.
Hansons Auctioneers Updates
As owner of Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, Derbyshire, Hanson oversees £20M+ yearly sales. 2026 sees expansions with online bids via thesaleroom.com, drawing global punters. Recent sales hit £1.2M for a single toy train collection.
The firm specializes in medals, jewelry, and Asian art, with weekly viewings. Hanson’s hands-on role includes valuations, free Monday sessions. 2026 growth targets US markets via partnerships.
Key 2026 Auctions
January’s militaria sale features Boer War items, estimated at £5,000-£50,000. February Pokémon event predicts £100K totals. Regency furniture in March eyes £200K+ hauls.
Auction Trends 2026
Hanson forecasted 10 hot trends for 2026 auctions on December 21, 2025. Top: old diamonds and vintage watches, with Rolex Submariners up 25%. Pokémon cards lead pop culture, rare Charizards fetching £10,000+.
Regency furniture surges, Georgian chairs £2,000-£5,000. Militaria booms post-remembrance events. Sustainability drives Art Nouveau glass demand.
Pokémon Boom Details
First-gen holographics average £500, mint Pikachu £20,000. Hanson advises grading via PSA. Online sales spike 40% yearly.
Theater Tours Spotlight
Post-verdict, Hanson joined Antiques on Tour 2025-2026, starting Neath April 2025. With co-stars like Stuart Hodgson, shows blend valuation demos and Q&A. Bristol opener sold out, tickets £25-£40.
The 2026 leg hits 20 venues, including London Palladium. Interactive elements let audiences bid mock items. Hanson calls it “pure joy” after hiatus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charles Hanson still on Bargain Hunt in 2026?
Yes, Charles Hanson is a regular expert and auctioneer on Bargain Hunt. He returned to the show in May 2025 following his legal acquittal and continues to film new episodes airing throughout 2026.
What was the final verdict in the Charles Hanson court case?
On February 28, 2025, a jury at Derby Crown Court found Charles Hanson not guilty on all counts. He was unanimously cleared of charges including coercive control and assault.
Does Charles Hanson still own Hansons Auctioneers?
Yes, Charles Hanson remains the owner and managing director of Hansons Auctioneers. Under his leadership, the firm has expanded to multiple locations, including Derbyshire, Staffordshire, London, and most recently, North Norfolk.
How can I see Charles Hanson live?
You can see Charles Hanson live by attending his auctions at the Heage Lane Saleroom in Derbyshire or visiting his various valuation days. He also performs as a guest speaker at local community events and charity galas.
Where is Charles Hanson’s auction house located?
The main headquarters is located at Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire (DE65 6LS). Other major salerooms include Bishton Hall in Staffordshire and the Teddington saleroom in London.
What is the most expensive item Charles Hanson has ever sold?
One of his most famous sales was a Qianlong period Chinese porcelain vase, which had been used as a doorstop for 36 years and sold for £650,000. More recently, he has handled items like D-Day blueprints valued at £100,000.
Is Charles Hanson still married to Rebecca?
No, Charles and Rebecca Hanson are no longer together. Following the 2023 separation and the subsequent trial, the couple entered divorce proceedings, and Charles moved out of the marital home in 2024.
When did Charles Hanson return to Antiques Road Trip?
Charles Hanson officially returned to Antiques Road Trip in December 2025. He kicked off his return with a full week of episodes alongside co-expert Roo Irvine.
How do I get a valuation from Charles Hanson?
You can get a valuation by bringing your items to a “Free Valuation Day” at his Derbyshire saleroom, typically held every Thursday. You can also upload photos to the Hansons Auctioneers website for a remote appraisal.
Has Charles Hanson written any books?
While primarily known for his TV work and auctioneering, Charles Hanson frequently contributes expert columns to national newspapers and trade magazines, focusing on market trends and “the thrill of the find.”
What charities does Charles Hanson support?
Charles is a long-time supporter of SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) and frequently hosts charity auctions for local hospices and community organizations across the Midlands.
Can I bid online at Charles Hanson’s auctions?
Yes, you can bid online via Hansons Live or third-party platforms like The Saleroom. Registration is free, and you can watch the live video feed of Charles on the rostrum during the sale.
Final Thoughts
The latest Charles Hanson news confirms a major professional resurgence following the definitive resolution of his legal challenges in early 2025. Having been cleared of all charges, Hanson has successfully integrated back into the fabric of British daytime television while simultaneously steering his auction empire toward new heights of success.
His journey through the past two years serves as a testament to his enduring popularity and the strength of the Hansons Auctioneers brand. From record-breaking sales of historical artifacts like the D-Day blueprints to his energetic returns on Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, Hanson remains a central figure in the global antiques community. As he continues to expand his reach into new regions like North Norfolk and embraces modern auction trends for 2026, his influence on the industry appears more robust than ever.
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