So, you’re a book lover who is planning a trip to London? Well, you’re in luck because this article is here to help you discover the absolute best bookshops that this vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re on the hunt for rare collector’s editions, seeking out the latest releases, or simply craving the cozy ambiance of a traditional bookstore, London will not disappoint. From famous literary landmarks to hidden gems tucked away in quiet corners, get ready to explore the literary wonders of this bustling metropolis.
Explore the Best Bookshops in London
London is a literary paradise, with countless bookshops scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re searching for a rare collector’s item or simply looking to browse the shelves for your next great read, London has a bookshop to cater to every book lover’s needs. From historic stores to quirky independent shops, each district in London offers a unique selection of bookshops that are worth exploring. So, grab your tote bag and get ready to immerse yourself in the literary wonders of the city!
Charing Cross Road
Located in the heart of London, Charing Cross Road has long been known as a haven for book enthusiasts. The road is home to several iconic bookshops, including Foyles, Stanfords, and Any Amount of Books.
Foyles
Foyles is a literary institution in London, known for its extensive collection of books across a wide range of genres. With four floors of books, you could easily spend hours getting lost in the labyrinthine aisles. Foyles also hosts regular events, including author talks and book signings, making it a must-visit destination for book lovers.
Stanfords
If you have a passion for travel and exploration, you can’t miss Stanfords. This legendary map and travel bookshop has been in operation since 1853 and offers an unparalleled selection of travel guides, atlases, and globes. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply want to indulge your wanderlust, Stanfords is the place to be.
Any Amount of Books
For those on the hunt for a literary bargain, Any Amount of Books is the perfect spot. This second-hand bookshop boasts a vast collection of used books, often at incredibly affordable prices. From classic literature to contemporary fiction, you’re bound to find a hidden gem amidst the shelves. Just be prepared to spend some time digging through the stacks!
Bloomsbury
Known as the literary heart of London, Bloomsbury is home to several bookshops that have become beloved institutions within the city’s literary scene. From independent stores to specialist bookshops, there’s something for everyone in Bloomsbury.
Persephone Books
Persephone Books is a treasure trove for lovers of forgotten and overlooked literature. The store specializes in republishing neglected works, primarily by women writers, from the early to mid-20th century. With their distinctive grey covers and beautifully designed interiors, Persephone Books offers a unique reading experience.
Gay’s The Word
As one of the oldest LGBTQ+ bookshops in the world, Gay’s The Word has played a vital role in promoting queer literature since it first opened its doors in 1979. The shop features a wide selection of books, ranging from queer classics to the latest releases, as well as hosting regular events and book launches.
Daunt Books
Daunt Books in Marylebone is a sight to behold. Housed in a historic Edwardian building, the store’s stunning architecture and stained glass windows make browsing the shelves a truly enchanting experience. Daunt Books specializes in travel literature and stocks an extensive range of titles from around the world.
London Review Bookshop
Situated just around the corner from the British Museum, the London Review Bookshop is a haven for lovers of independent publishing. The shop stocks a carefully curated selection of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, all chosen by the editors of the renowned London Review of Books.
Skoob Books
Tucked away in an underground location near Russell Square, Skoob Books is a paradise for bookworms on a budget. With over 55,000 second-hand books to choose from, you’re sure to find a literary gem at a fraction of the original price. Dig deep into the stacks and you might uncover a rare find!
Notting Hill
Famous for its colorful houses and vibrant market, Notting Hill is also home to some delightful bookshops. Whether you’re a fan of modern fiction or classic literature, Notting Hill has something to offer.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
As the inspiration behind the famous bookstore in the film “Notting Hill,” The Notting Hill Bookshop is an essential stop for fans of the movie. Beyond its cinematic fame, the store boasts a wide selection of books across various genres and is a charming place to spend an afternoon browsing.
Lutyens & Rubinstein
Lutyens & Rubinstein is a boutique bookshop that prides itself on its carefully curated selection of books. With a focus on contemporary fiction and non-fiction, the store offers a thoughtfully chosen array of titles that are sure to pique your interest. The staff are also known for their excellent recommendations, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance!
The London Review Bookshop
Although not located in Bloomsbury, we must mention The London Review Bookshop’s second location in Notting Hill. This extension of the beloved literary institution offers a similarly excellent selection of books, covering a wide range of genres, and hosts regular author events.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is known for its bustling streets, vibrant atmosphere, and a plethora of shops. Within this lively district, you’ll find several bookshops that are worth exploring.
Stanford’s
Stanford’s second location on Long Acre is another gem for travel enthusiasts. Just steps away from the famous Covent Garden Market, this exceptional bookshop offers an extensive range of maps, travel guides, and globes to satisfy your wanderlust.
Elusive Books
If you’re on the hunt for rare and collectible books, Elusive Books is the place to be. This specialist bookshop caters to avid collectors with its impressive selection of rare editions and first editions. From signed copies to limited print runs, Elusive Books is a true bibliophile’s dream.
Taschen
Taschen is an internationally renowned publisher of art, photography, and design books, and their Covent Garden store is a must-visit for any art lover. The shop showcases a stunning selection of beautifully bound books, covering various artistic genres and styles.
Marylebone
Located in the elegant neighborhood of Marylebone, these bookshops offer a sophisticated and literary experience.
Daunt Books
While we mentioned Daunt Books earlier as part of Bloomsbury, their Marylebone location deserves its own mention. With its picturesque Edwardian frontage and long oak galleries, Daunt Books provides an atmospheric setting for discovering new reads.
John Sandoe Books
Tucked away on a quiet street just off the bustling King’s Road, John Sandoe Books is a hidden gem for book lovers. The shop boasts floor-to-ceiling shelves, lined with an extensive collection of books across a myriad of genres. With its cozy ambiance, John Sandoe Books provides a haven from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The Wallace Collection
While not strictly a bookshop, The Wallace Collection is a must-visit for art and book enthusiasts alike. Housed in a stunning historic townhouse, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of art, decorative arts, and an impressive library. Explore the book-lined rooms and immerse yourself in the artful world of The Wallace Collection.
Southbank
Located along the banks of the River Thames, Southbank is a cultural hub in the heart of London. Here, you’ll find several bookshops that cater to the artistic and literary community.
The National Theatre Bookshop
The National Theatre Bookshop offers a curated selection of plays, scripts, and books on theater-related topics. Whether you’re a theater aficionado or simply looking for a new play to read, this bookshop is a great place to explore the world of dramatic literature.
Waterstones
While Waterstones is a popular chain of bookshops across the UK, their Southbank location offers something special. This flagship store boasts multiple floors of books, each curated with care. The shop features an extensive range of titles, including bestsellers, classics, and a wide array of non-fiction selections.
The Bookshop Theatre
Nestled within the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe, The Bookshop Theatre is a hidden gem that combines the love of books and theater. The store offers a variety of plays, books on theatrical history, and works by renowned playwrights. Grab a book and soak in the theatrical atmosphere of this unique bookshop.
Hampstead
Escape the bustle of central London and venture into Hampstead, a picturesque neighborhood known for its leafy streets and literary connections. Here, you’ll find a couple of charming bookshops to add to your must-visit list.
Keats House
Keats House, the former residence of Romantic poet John Keats, now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and works. In addition to exploring the exhibits, visitors can browse the small but well-stocked bookshop, where they can find poetry collections, biographies, and other literary works.
West End Lane Books
West End Lane Books is an independent bookshop that has been serving the community for over 25 years. With its friendly staff and carefully curated collection of books, this cozy store is the perfect place to discover your next favorite read.
Soho
Known for its vibrant nightlife and artistic heritage, Soho is a cultural hotspot in the heart of London. It’s no surprise that the district is home to some unique and eclectic bookshops.
Gosh! Comics
Comic book enthusiasts will rejoice at the sight of Gosh! Comics. This quirky independent store offers a diverse range of graphic novels, manga, and comic books. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual reader, Gosh! Comics has something for everyone.
Foyles
While Foyles already earned a mention for its flagship store on Charing Cross Road, its Soho location shouldn’t be overlooked. Situated in a former dairy, this branch of Foyles offers a specially curated selection of books, with a particular focus on art, film, and music.
Word on the Water
For a truly unique bookshop experience, make your way to Word on the Water, a floating bookstore on a barge. Moored along the Regent’s Canal, this charming bookstore is stocked with a carefully selected collection of books. Enjoy browsing the shelves while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the water.
Kensington
Kensington, with its elegant architecture and prestigious museums, offers a refined setting for bookshops that cater to sophisticated readers.
Daunt Books
Yes, Daunt Books makes another appearance on our list, this time with its Kensington branch. Located in an Edwardian building, this delightful bookshop offers the same inviting atmosphere and extensive selection of travel literature as its sister locations.
The Notting Hill Bookshop
While we mentioned The Notting Hill Bookshop earlier, it also has a second location in Kensington. This store maintains the charm and cozy atmosphere that the original location is known for, offering a diverse range of books to peruse.
Heywood Hill
Heywood Hill is a literary institution that has been serving readers since 1936. This independent bookshop prides itself on providing personalized book recommendations and tailoring book subscriptions to each customer’s tastes. Treat yourself to a literary journey curated by the knowledgeable staff at Heywood Hill.
City of London
Amidst the towering skyscrapers and historic landmarks of the City of London, you’ll find a couple of bookshops that offer solace and literary delights.
Maggs Bros
Maggs Bros is a renowned antiquarian bookseller that has been operating for over 150 years. Specializing in rare books, manuscripts, and exceptional prints, this bookshop is a must-visit for collectors and bibliophiles seeking unique and treasured pieces of literary history.
Hatchards
Founded in 1797, Hatchards is London’s oldest bookstore. Located on Piccadilly, just a stone’s throw from major attractions such as Buckingham Palace and Fortnum & Mason, this iconic store exudes history and literary charm. Browse the shelves and discover literary classics or the latest bestsellers amidst the grandeur of Hatchards.
London is a city that has long embraced the written word, and its bookshops are a testament to its literary heritage. From atmospheric independent stores to historic institutions, each bookshop in London offers a unique experience for book lovers. So, whether you’re looking for a long-lost classic, a first edition, or simply a cozy spot to get lost in the world of literature, prepare to embark on a literary adventure through the diverse and magical bookshops of the city!
