Are you in search of unique literary spots in London? Below we present a carefully curated list of must-visit bookshops ranging from quaint independent stores to expansive literary havens.
Libreria, Spitalfields
Address: 65 Hanbury Street, London E1 5JL, UK
Phone: +44 20 3818 3240
With a mirrored ceiling and bright yellow shelves, Libreria offers cozy reading nooks and events that combine beers, live music, and film screenings. Opened in 2016, it features a curated selection of themed books, showcasing independent publishers. It’s a perfect spot for late-night literary enthusiasts.
Hatchards, Mayfair
Address: 5 White Horse Street, London W1J 7LQ, UK
Phone: +44 20 7409 0567
As London’s oldest bookshop, established in 1797, Hatchards serves as the official bookseller to the royal family. The store’s classic décor features oak bookshelves and Chesterfield sofas, making it a lovely environment to explore modern and classic literature.
Daunt Books, Marylebone
Address: 84 Marylebone High Street, London W1U 4QW, UK
Phone: +44 20 7224 2295
Known for its Edwardian charm, Daunt Books specializes in travel literature and boasts an impressive array of fiction and reference books. The ambience is enhanced by oak balconies and stained-glass windows, inviting patrons to discover new titles in a beautiful setting.
Gosh! Comics, Soho
Address: 1 Berwick Street, London W1F 0DR, UK
Phone: +44 20 7437 0187
Gosh! Comics is a haven for comic book enthusiasts. This trendy shop in Soho features a diverse collection of graphic novels, manga, and stylish children’s books. The store regularly hosts events with illustrators and artists, enriching the community’s creative spirit.
Persephone Books, Bloomsbury
Address: 8 Edgar Buildings, Bath BA1 2EE, UK
Phone: +44 1225 425050
Situated in Bloomsbury, Persephone Books specializes in reprinting obscure works by 20th-century female authors. Each title features elegant design, making them ideal gifts. The shop offers regular events and even a reading group that pairs discussions with wine and cheese.
Word on The Water, King’s Cross
Address: Regent’s Canal Towpath, London N1C 4LW, UK
Phone: +44 7976 886982
As London’s only floating bookshop, Word on the Water features an eclectic collection of affordable books on a historic barge. Attendees can enjoy live music and poetry events, immersing themselves in a unique literary experience on the canal.
Foyles, Charing Cross
Address: 107 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0EB, UK
Phone: +44 20 7437 5660
Foyles is a massive bookshop comprising over 200,000 titles across four stylish floors. It features a vibrant event space hosting readings, workshops, and performances, catering to book lovers of all ages. Originally founded in 1903, it continues to be a family-run business.
Books For Cooks, Notting Hill
Address: 4 Blenheim Crescent, London W11 1NN, UK
Phone: +44 20 7221 1992
Books For Cooks offers a culinary treasure trove with over 8,000 titles, covering everything from recipe books to foodie fiction. The shop hosts cooking workshops and features a demonstration kitchen, ensuring tantalizing aromas fill the air. Their daily-changing menu is inspired by the cookbooks in stock.
Stanfords, Covent Garden
Address: 7 Henrietta Street, London WC2E 8PS, UK
Phone: +44 20 7379 8833
Since its establishment in 1853, Stanfords has become renowned for housing the world’s largest map and travel book collection. It’s an essential destination for travelers seeking atlases, travel guides, and literature showcasing global destinations.
