The UK is home to a plethora of charming and unique bookshops, ranging from historic establishments to contemporary indie stores. Whether you’re a bibliophile in search of rare finds or just love the ambiance of a good bookstore, these top 20 bookshops in the UK offer something special for every reader.
1. Daunt Books
Description: Renowned for its Edwardian interior and focus on travel literature, Daunt Books is a must-visit for book lovers. Location: Marylebone, London Popularity: Known for its stunning oak galleries and organized by country. Special Features: Frequent author events and beautiful travel section. Link: Daunt Books
2. Foyles
Description: One of London’s largest and most famous bookshops, Foyles boasts an extensive selection across multiple genres. Location: Charing Cross Road, London Popularity: Famous for its comprehensive collection and historic significance. Special Features: Regular events, café, and music section. Link: Foyles
3. Blackwell’s
Description: Established in 1879, Blackwell’s is a historic bookshop with a vast selection, particularly strong in academic texts. Location: Broad Street, Oxford Popularity: Known for its large Norrington Room and academic focus. Special Features: Hosts numerous author events and book launches. Link: Blackwell’s
4. Hatchards
Description: As London’s oldest bookshop, Hatchards offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a curated selection of books. Location: Piccadilly, London Popularity: Known for its elegant setting and royal warrants. Special Features: Rich history and beautifully arranged displays. Link: Hatchards
5. Waterstones Piccadilly
Description: The largest bookshop in Europe, Waterstones Piccadilly offers five floors of books and a host of amenities. Location: Piccadilly, London Popularity: Known for its size and comprehensive selection. Special Features: Café, bar, and regular events. Link: Waterstones Piccadilly
6. The Book Hive
Description: An independent bookshop in Norwich, known for its eclectic selection and unique character. Location: Norwich, Norfolk Popularity: Loved for its quirky charm and diverse collection. Special Features: Local author focus and vibrant atmosphere. Link: The Book Hive
7. Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights
Description: A multi-award-winning independent bookshop known for its personalized book recommendations. Location: Bath, Somerset Popularity: Famous for its friendly staff and custom book subscriptions. Special Features: Reading spa and author events. Link: Mr B’s Emporium
8. Shakespeare and Company
Description: A legendary bookshop that’s been serving readers for decades, offering a range of new and used books. Location: Edinburgh, Scotland Popularity: Known for its literary history and bohemian vibe. Special Features: Writers-in-residence program and poetry readings. Link: Shakespeare and Company
9. Lutyens & Rubinstein
Description: A chic independent bookshop in Notting Hill, offering a curated selection of fiction and non-fiction. Location: Notting Hill, London Popularity: Loved for its elegant setting and thoughtful book choices. Special Features: Bespoke book subscriptions and author events. Link: Lutyens & Rubinstein
10. Stanfords
Description: The world’s largest travel bookstore, offering an extensive range of maps, travel guides, and globes. Location: Covent Garden, London Popularity: Famous for its vast travel section and historic significance. Special Features: Travel-related events and workshops. Link: Stanfords
11. Topping & Company Booksellers
Description: An independent bookshop with branches in Ely, Bath, and St Andrews, known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive range. Location: Ely, Bath, St Andrews Popularity: Loved for its welcoming ambiance and knowledgeable staff. Special Features: Complimentary tea and coffee for browsers. Link: Topping & Company
12. Persephone Books
Description: Specializes in reprinting neglected fiction and non-fiction by mid-20th century (mostly) women writers. Location: Bloomsbury, London Popularity: Renowned for its beautifully designed grey covers. Special Features: Focus on forgotten literary gems. Link: Persephone Books
13. Word on the Water
Description: A floating bookshop on a barge, offering a unique selection of second-hand books and live music. Location: Regent’s Canal, London Popularity: Known for its distinctive setting and eclectic offerings. Special Features: Live music performances and poetry readings. Link: Word on the Water
14. Barter Books
Description: One of the largest second-hand bookshops in Britain, housed in a historic railway station. Location: Alnwick, Northumberland Popularity: Known for its vast collection and charming setting. Special Features: Open fires, model trains, and a café. Link: Barter Books
15. The Edinburgh Bookshop
Description: An award-winning independent bookshop offering a curated selection of books for all ages. Location: Edinburgh, Scotland Popularity: Loved for its friendly service and community focus. Special Features: Regular author events and children’s storytime. Link: The Edinburgh Bookshop
16. Gay’s the Word
Description: The UK’s oldest LGBT+ bookshop, offering a wide range of titles related to the LGBT+ community. Location: Bloomsbury, London Popularity: Celebrated for its inclusive selection and historical significance. Special Features: Regular events and supportive community space. Link: Gay’s the Word
17. Five Leaves Bookshop
Description: An independent bookshop with a focus on radical and political books, as well as literary fiction. Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire Popularity: Known for its unique selection and community engagement. Special Features: Regular talks and book launches. Link: Five Leaves Bookshop
18. The London Review Bookshop
Description: Owned by the London Review of Books, this shop offers a curated selection of titles and a peaceful café. Location: Bloomsbury, London Popularity: Loved for its thoughtful selection and tranquil setting. Special Features: Author events and cake shop. Link: London Review Bookshop
19. Libreria
Description: A beautifully designed bookshop offering a unique browsing experience, with books arranged by themes rather than genres. Location: Spitalfields, London Popularity: Known for its innovative layout and immersive atmosphere. Special Features: Printing press and creative workshops. Link: Libreria
20. Wenlock Books
Description: A charming independent bookshop in the heart of Much Wenlock, known for its welcoming ambiance. Location: Much Wenlock, Shropshire Popularity: Loved for its friendly staff and strong community ties. Special Features: Regular events and reading groups. Link: Wenlock Books
Conclusion
The UK’s bookshops offer more than just books; they provide experiences, communities, and a deep connection to the literary world. Whether you’re in search of a specific title or simply love the ambiance of a bookshop, these 20 establishments are sure to delight and inspire. Share your favorite bookshops or suggest ones we might have missed in the comments below!