June 2025
From Jazz Drummer to Vintage Dreamer
At Alfie’s Antiques, every piece tells a story – but none more personal than that of our namesake, Alfie Gray. While today we’re celebrated for our curated selection of vintage and antique items, the heart of Alfie’s is deeply rooted in a rich tapestry of music, dreams, and family heritage.
In the early 1930s, Alfie Gray was a drummer with Jack Harris and His Grosvenor House Band, a prominent ensemble performing at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.
Despite his musical success, Alfie harbored a passion for antiques, though his attempts were, by many accounts, more enthusiastic than effective. Yet, his love for vintage items never waned.
Alfie’s contributions can be heard on recordings like “Nevertheless (I’m In Love With You)” and “You Are My Heart’s Delight,” where his drumming added a distinctive flair to the band’s sound.
A Father’s Encouragement
While Alfie Gray never quite succeeded in the antiques trade himself, in the 1970s he encouraged his son, Bennie Gray, to buy the former Jordan’s Department Store and transform it into the iconic Alfies Antiques Market we know and love today.
Inspired by Alfie’s passion for vintage and his uncanny eye for character, Bennie turned the space into one of London’s most celebrated antiques destinations. Alfies may be Bennie’s vision in practice – but its heart will always belong to Alfie.
