Best Bookshops in London
London is one of my favorite cities in the world, and I’ve been to every state in the US and over 30 countries. It has a little bit of everything, and some of the best bookshops! They’re beautiful, historic, and all so unique. So here's my quick guide to the best bookshops in the city.
Notting Hill
Books for Cooks
Location: Notting Hill
Books for Cooks is the perfect bookshop for foodies. They specialize in cookbooks and the store also has a test kitchen where recipes from the books are tried and served. The combo of books & food is, dare I say, chefs kiss.
Lutyens & Rubinstein
Location: Notting Hill
This independent bookstore offers a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children's books. Its emphasis on quality over quantity make it a personal favorite.
Notting Hill Bookshop
Location: Notting Hill
Famously featured in the film “Notting Hill,” this bookstore offers a whole lotta charm and a wide selection of books in a cozy setting. It’s a must-visit for movie buffs and book lovers. Plus, I’ve also heard they just opened up a cafe!
Marylebone & Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill Books
Location: Primrose Hill, Regent’s Park Road
Primrose Hill Books is a family-run bookstore with a strong selection of fiction, art, and children's books. It’s proximity to Primrose Hill makes it an ideal spot to end up at after a lovely walk through the park.
Daunt Books
Location: Marylebone, High Street
Daunt Books is famous for its beautiful interior with oak galleries and skylights. Originally a travel bookstore, it’s still best known for its extensive travel section, organized by country. I even picked up a book to plan my Budapest vacation last year. You’ll love the atmosphere and the curated selection of titles so much you won’t ever want to leave - but when you do, make sure to get one of their classic tote bags, it’s worth the money.
Bloomsbury & Fitzrovia
Judd Books
Location: Marchmont Street
Judd Books is a treasure trove for bargain hunters, offering a vast selection of second-hand and discounted books. Its cozy, packed shelves are perfect for those who love to browse and uncover hidden gems.
Waterstones
Location: Gower Street
Housed in a beautiful historic building, this Waterstones location on Gower Street is known for its extensive range of titles and welcoming atmosphere. Its five floors offer something for every reader, from academic texts to the latest bestsellers with lots of cozy hidden spots to study and Dillons Cafe downstairs with plenty of seating inside and outside.
Word on the Water
Location: Regent's Canal
This unique bookstore is set on a literal barge, offering a delightful mix of books and a beautiful setting on the water. Known for its eclectic selection and regular live music events, Word on the Water provides a charming and memorable book-buying experience.
Gay's the Word
Location: Marchmont Street
As the UK’s oldest LGBT bookstore, Gay’s the Word is a vital stop for any book lovers in London’s . It offers a wide range of books by and about the LGBTQ+ community, and its welcoming environment makes it a cherished space for both readers and activists.
London Review Bookshop
Location: Bloomsbury
Affiliated with the London Review of Books, this shop offers a carefully curated selection of titles across genres. Its café and regular events make it a lively spot for literary discussions.
Soho & Covent Garden
Foyles
Location: Charing Cross Road
Foyles is a legendary name in the world of books. With over 200,000 titles spread across four miles of shelves, it's a haven for book enthusiasts. What makes Foyles special is its comprehensive collection, friendly staff, and the airy café where readers can relax with their new finds.
Hatchards
Location: Piccadilly
Established in 1797, Hatchards is the oldest bookstore in London. It's known for its elegant interior, knowledgeable staff, and a selection that caters to both literary classics and contemporary works. The store's history and charm make it a must-visit for any bibliophile.
Waterstones
Location: Piccadilly & Trafalgar Square
Waterstones Piccadilly is the largest bookstore in Europe, offering six floors of books across all genres. The size, central location, and regular events make it a cultural hotspot in London. There’s also a nice cafe and a bar upstairs.
Conclusion
Each of these bookstores offers something unique, whether it's a vast selection, historical significance, or the perfect place to hang out. Visiting these bookstores is not just about buying books; it's about experiencing London's rich literary culture firsthand. I’m always anxious to go back and find a new bookstore, so let me know if I’m missing any!
xoxo,
- April Editorial
