Secondhand and Antiquarian Bookshops in the UK 2019
Key
Open at advertised times
Phone before travelling
Appointment necessary
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure these details are correct, we recommend that you contact each individual bookshop before travelling any distance. Add your Bookshop here
A and Y Cumming Ltd
84 High Street
LEWES East Sussex BN7 1XN map
tel: 01273 472319
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Very large stock including travel, fine bindings, art & illustrated, literature, natural history and topography.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsSome wonderful stock in the basement. I regret not spending much longer there. Assisted in my searches but never put pressure on me to buy. - Chris Harte 01.04.09.
A good selection of books on a wide variety of subjects. The pricing appears to be reasonable. The service was friendly, amusing and slightly eccentric. - h442 28.07.10.
Basement? What basement? Some beautiful books, in a lovely but slightly rarefied atmosphere where, for the average and eclectically minded book buyer there was not a lot. Lots of customers tho; and some very interesting WW2 magazines. - Jon Morgan 16.08.12.
Five years since my last visit and it is still the stock in the basement which makes me part with too much money. Overall the general holdings seem to have been refreshed as I spotted titles I know were not on show previously. Prices were, if anything, slightly lower than expected. - Chris Harte 17.06.14.
Did just visit on the ground floor but nothing special to buy then. - Chris K 15.09.17.
Agree with Chris. Some interesting finds in the ephemera section. - Herne 23.10.17.
Classy if a bit intimidating. Purchased some welcome missing old railway titles but was not invited to see the back room which appeared bigger than the shop. What basement? - Norman Davies 31.05.18.
Addyman Books
39 Lion Street
HAY-ON-WYE Powys HR3 5AD map
tel: 01497 821136 fax: 01497 821732 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 10.30 - 5.30.
A large stock of second hand books. Specialising in modern first editions, literature, eighteenth and nineteenth century and antiquarian. We also have two other shops in Hay, The Addyman Annexe and Murder and Mayhem - specialising in mystery, detective fiction and true crime.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsMost interesting shop which has had a recent facelift after twenty-five years of trading. A specialised ground-floor children's room was full of young ankle-biters and their mothers. Upstairs had sections on transport, the performing arts and literature. I had a wonderful time searching for my wants and left staggering under the weight of two box-loads. Many shops in Hay are pretentious: this, thank goodness, is not one of them. - Chris Harte 18.08.10.
Very good shop with much to interest all readers and buyers. good railway selection. - Norman Davies 16.03.11.
Very good,wide ranging, well laid out stock but expensive. Not the most generous or realistic offers in Hay should you take in books. - The Drifter 22.08.13.
Although there was a wide ranging and interesting stock in a limited number of subject areas, I didn't find what I was looking for, but judging by the prices displayed on quite ordinary titles in the window I wouldn't have been able to have afforded it even if I had. - Nicholas Pendower 12.04.14.
A big stock, and quite a lot of it interesting; but, as just about everywhere in Hay, nothing special. - James Mackay 14.06.14.
This shop is pleasant enough to visit purely to admire the reclaimed and painted wooden paneling from an old 19th Century Transylvanian Church. Very heavy on art & photography books, but I came away empty-handed. - Laurence Batchelor 19.07.14.
Not bad and retains some of the old Hay charm - mind the wood worm infested floor boards and large hole! Upstairs bigger than I remember . Kids section interesting but Biggles etc pricey. Otherwise so so. The penguin / paperback room has so many that the orange / green begins to glare after a while ... - Jon Morgan 16.09.14.
Back again after almost exactly four years. Not a great deal has changed, other than an infection, here and elsewhere of the remainder virus. Not a bad thing in itself, but the same remainders kept appearing in different shops. The prices charged for some of them (£5 plus) was surprising. Stock here not bad, but none of the Terry Pratchett HB that I was after. - Jonathan Morgan 15.09.18.
Alan Prim
6 South Main Street
YOUGHAL Co. Cork
tel: (0)24 92781 e-mail
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 1.00 & 2.00 - 5.30 (closed January).
Irish interest, literature and general stock.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThis was the surprise bookshop out of all those we visited on our Irish tour. A bit scruffy and needed a clean, but what were occupying the shelves were some very interesting titles indeed. The categories became clearer on the third walk around and once into those of my interests then I starting pulling out ones to purchase. Prices for individual books were a little high but in bulk, with discount, the cost became most acceptable. Take your time when visiting and be patient: there is some very good material along with ordinary stuff. I will certainly revisit. - Chris Harte 19.10.16.
Any Amount of Books
56 Charing Cross Road
CHARING CROSS London WC2H 0QA map
tel: 020 7836 3697 web
Open: 7 days 10.30 - 9.30.
Rare books, first editions, modern literature, art, poetry, scholarly/academic books, antiquarian, leather bound sets, general stock. We buy large collections of books anywhere in the known world.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsExcellent shop, with very friendly staff, always worth a close look. Bargains possible. - James Salmon 21.08.09.
Always worth a visit and prices reasonable (for London). The really good stuff, however, is on the net and not held in the shop. - Loyola 24.04.10.
Two floors of varied topics. The locked up cases of antiquarian titles contained a few rarities and took a bit of time to check. Basement stock general but worth searching. - Chris Harte 28.06.10.
Nothing like as good as it was, most of the gems to be found downstairs seem a thing of the past, but one can still find the occasional bargain. - Mandalay Emporium 09.04.11.
Great to find a secondhand shop open late. Good stock and fair prices. WAD. - Steven Whitehead 13.09.11.
This place always seems to be our most successful book shopping on Charing Cross Road - we usually leave with around a dozen books on each visit and the variety and quantity are excellent. Prices mostly very good too and even some very interesting items to be found in their bargain shelves/boxes outside and downstairs - lots to rummage through, but we often find a few worth buying. - M&O 14.04.12.
Worth having a look. More for reader than collector. Very chaotic, but friendly. Large Antiquarian stock and some worthy firsts behind chatty till, but not proper dealers - more like an episode of Friends with books involved. - Sam Glen 28.05.13.
I love this place, chaotic and fascinating as well as crammed with review and proof copies, I have saved a fortune, even compared with Amazon prices over the years. I always manage to knock a few off the wish list on every visit. - Jon Morgan 31.05.14.
NB worth following this place on Twitter (Yes, even I have succumbed and now have an account) as they give notice of basement sales where all books are half marked price for a limited period. Once again I knocked a couple of the wish list. The stock is replenished daily during this period and it is fair to say the shelves get stripped. - Jon Morgan 07.10.14.
A swift volte face as I received a message by twitter that the sale continues (it does) and that the basement had been restocked. (it has not!). Rather disappointing as I had travelled into town to browse. - Jon Morgan 09.10.14.
Disappointment continues, Lured by tweets of a restocked basement I trolleyed into town and found it stocked with unsellable dross. large gaps on the shelves. The review copies, usually a good source of bargains had dwindled to nothing. - Jon Morgan 01.11.14.
Impressive service. Identified book in stock on Monday and following prompt replies by email I purchased the book on Thursday when I was in London. Have been looking for this book for some time and a reasonable price was paid. - SteveBrissle 07.03.15.
Again lured by a tweet on a basement sale. More choice in terms of the review copies and the reduced price recent hardbacks yielded some gems, saved me some dosh and crossed a few of the Amazon wish list. The majority in the basement though is still dross. - Jon Morgan 06.06.15.
Despite the disappointing basement noted above, the rather cramped ground floor has strong sections on art, architecture, travel and topography; check the window display for attractive oddities. Turnover is swift, the stock refreshed by recent review copies, and prices are pleasingly modest for the West End. I found a hefty monograph by the American photographer Todd Webb - rarely seen in the UK - for a knock-down price of £12. Cheerful staff, too. - Nicholas Sack 15.01.16.
Another year another basement sale. Except that the basement is half empty. Even the review / proof copies are poor. Lots of boxes of books which need putting out. Perhaps this could be done BEFORE they tweet that it has been done! - Jon Morgan 15.01.16.
Listed as one of the best used book shops in the country recently in some online article - bizarre choice by a lazy writer or friend of the owner, I guess. Poorly laid out - upstairs, it gets crowded easily. Downstairs ... well I've only once found anything worth buying and with 4 or 5 people down there (as today) its impossible to do anything other than queue behind people to wait and look at a shelf. Plenty of cheap "4 for 5 quid" stuff there and outside but nothing that looked worth buying. - Flip M 07.04.16.
Flip M's comments seem undeservedly harsh. This is an excellent, traditional bookshop. Sometimes it is crowded but this is a good thing. AAoB's outstanding features are its reasonable prices and the high turnover of stock. I have visited it weekly for many years and come away with scores of bargains in my time. - Laurence Purcell 18.04.16.
Now restocked with some good quality review copies of recent hb fiction and proof copies in the basement . My negative reviews of basement sales in terms of both quality and restocking as advertised have touched a nerve as they have blocked me on Twitter. Rather puerile really - if they can't take valid criticism ... - Jon Morgan 27.09.16.
Great shop, love the basement sales especially after the restock. Have also found some seriously reasonable rarities upstairs and round the back. Probably the best old books shop in town. - Benj B 02.03.17.
Luck of the draw here again. large gaps in shelves upstairs and in the basement, with the latter in need of a good clear out again. When your luck is in , this place is a treasure house of new review copies at low prices , proof copies and interesting basement stock. When it is not, it is frustrating... - Jon Morgan 20.11.17.
Armchair Books
72-74 West Port
EDINBURGH Midlothian EH1 2LE map
tel: 0131 229 5927 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Sunday 10.00 - 6.30
Some of our rarer and more unique books are listed on AbeBooks: https://www.abebooks.co.uk/armchair-books-edinburgh/7238158/sf We keep a wide variety of modern and antiquarian stock, including early edition Harry Potter books.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsTwo long narrow bookshops side by side down the narrow West Port near the Grassmarket, Armchair looks a bit haphazard, particularly in comparison to some of its upmarket antiquarian neighbours, but with a large and varied stock it is well worth a look. The floor may be uneven and one of the entrances a bit too narrow but it has a lot of character as well as a lot of stock. Keep an eye out for the bookshelf in the shape of the Red Baron's plane and if you come eye to eye with a dog whilst looking at books on the lower shelves don't worry, he is just curious to see what you are looking for! - Jeremy Briggs.
As stated, two shops next to each other. Owner and his assistant could not have been more helpful. Good general stock. I found a lot of what I collect on the very top shelf in the second shop. Thankfully I did not have to climb the tall ladder to check what looked interesting as it was done for me with a smile and a pleasant attitude. I enjoyed my time browsing here. - Chris Harte 11.06.10.
Easily the best bookshop in Edinburgh. Friendly staff and owner. - Chris 09.04.11.
Great for fiction and history. Level pegging with the Edinburgh bookshop and McNaughtens. - Herne 02.11.13.
I almost didn't go in because the shop looked so small from the street, but inside I found a treasure trove of excellent old books in a shop more spacious than it appears. The staff were knowledgeable and helpful. - Richard 24.04.15.
Wonderful shop, comprehensively stocked and full of character. There are two rooms but the layout makes such imaginative use of the space available that it seems larger. There was a crowd of American students there during our visit and we had to QUEUE to buy our books! Fantastic to see so many people having a great time in a bookshop! - TravellingLibrary 08.08.15.
All one knocked-through shop, 4 packed cosy rooms, lots of books for £3.80. - glenk 04.09.15.
Best s/h bookshop in Edinburgh. Has to be dragged out by partner before excess spending. All older books, many subjects, comprehensive. Super. - Norman D 30.10.16.
Arthur Probsthain
41 Great Russell Street
BLOOMSBURY London WC1B 3PE map
tel: 020 7636 1096 e-mail
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 5.30 Saturday 12.00 - 4.00.
We stock a selection of great classics and also new books which have just been published. Each country or subject is separated which makes it an enjoyable browse. At our main branch we focus on art, (painting, architecture, ceramics, etc) music, film, religion, languages, literature and culture from China, Japan, South-east Asia, The Middle East, Africa, India and South Asia.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsEverything as it says in the above blurb. Nothing for the ordinary collector but heaps for those with bottomless pockets. - Chris Harte 19.06.13.
Barry McKay Rare Books
Kingstone House
Battlebarrow
APPLEBY-IN-WESTMORLAND Cumbria CA16 6XT map
tel: 017683 52282 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
5000 books mainly on the Arts & History of the Book; and a good stock of Antiquarian Books including many Provincial Printings. Saturday Afternoons are a bit iffy and a definite no-no on international rugby afternoons, so please phone first.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThis is a fantastic bookshop if you're interested in the above subjects. I've never seen so many 'books about books' . In a private house down hill from W-exit off A66; look for square arch. On the whole reasonably priced, VERY friendly owner. WWAD - PaulP 21.08.15.
Barton Books
45 Causewayhead
PENZANCE Cornwall TR18 2SS map
tel: 01736 363300 e-mail
Open: Tuesday - Friday 10.00 - 4.00, Saturday 10-3.00.
A carefully selected range of secondhand books on Art and Literature, chosen to complement the shop's new books which specialise in all things visual and creative. Visit for beautiful new and secondhand books, greeting cards and the occasional print or painting.
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Bath Old Books
9c Margaret's Buildings
Brock Street
BATH Somerset BA1 2LP map
tel: 01225 422244 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
A varied and constantly changing stock including: art, architecture, Bath and Jane Austen, children's, illustrated, literature and many others. A co-operative of five friendly dealers. Featured window displays and twice yearly sales.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAs their blurb says, 'very friendly.' A nice neat shop spread over two floors with no real specialisation. Some nice stock on all subjects especially local history. - Chris Harte 18.08.09.
An excellent shop, stock sensibly priced with friendly and helpful staff - Mark Barrett 11.05.10.
A very good find, large numbers of books in a traditional setting. Varied prices but some good quality books. Note shop is at the north end of a shopping lane off Brock Street. - Norman Davies 20.02.12.
Revisited this week. Same comments apply. Really is WAD, an excellent good old s/h bookshop. - Norman Davies 18.02.16.
Long-established and one of the few surviving secondhand bookshops in Bath. It's worth a detour although the prices of my two recent purchases were rather high, even after the 25% sale reductions (but easier than purchasing from an online 'warehouse'). - SteveBrissle 07.04.16.
An old-school shop with some real heft. Upstairs: Antiquarian books, fine bindings, art, children's books. Downstairs (reached by a spiral staircase lined with old prints): fiction, biography, local history etc. They're particularly strong on modern first editions. Has to be worth a small detour on your way from The Circus to the Royal Crescent. - Paul O 06.09.18.
Bennett & Kerr Books
Millhill Warehouse
Church Lane Steventon
ABINGDON Oxfordshire OX13 6SW map
tel: 01235 820604 fax: 01235 821047 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 5.30, Saturday less regularly. Closed for lunch.
Rare & scholarly books on the history, art, architecture, literature, philosophy and religion of the Middle Ages and Renascence, including: Byzantine, Anglo-Saxon, Viking & Islamic worlds. Warehouse in a farmyard at the far end of this picturesque medieval village. Please ring for directions and availability.
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Bernard J Shapero Rare Books
32 St. George Street
MAYFAIR London W1S 2EA map
tel: 020 7493 0876 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 6.30, Saturday 11.00 - 5.00.
Rare and antiquarian works, including extensive travel and mountaineering books, colour plate and illustrated, early English printed and modern literature. Our stock comprises over 4000 rare books and over 3000 maps, prints and photographs.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsGood modern firsts section upstairs with some uncommon titles/highlights but over the top prices even allowing for what must be substantial overheads. - Loyola 24.04.10.
Bernard Quaritch Ltd
40 South Audley Street
MAYFAIR London W1K 2PR map
tel: 020 7297 4888 e-mail web
Founded in 1847, we deal in rare books, manuscripts and photographs. Our specialist fields include English literature, travel, science, travel, human science, art, architecture and Islamica.
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Berwyn Books
Unit 4 Spencer Ind Estate
Liverpool Road
BUCKLEY Flintshire CH7 3LY map
tel: 01244 541415 e-mail web
Open: Appointment necessary.
Over 20,000 books on our constantly updated internet inventory. Valuations, bookbinding and clearance services.
Add a comment Read commentsHide comments*Situated at the rear of an antiques centre on a not easy to find side road on an industrial estate. Once found, the pleasure of searching the shelves takes over. Here is a shop comprising quality publications; some old and some fairly recent but all worthy of time to check if they could be worthwhile purchases. Everything in marked categories which makes it easy to browse. WWAD. - Chris Harte 07.04.13.
*Moved to Old Chapel in May. - TBG 16.05.13.
**A visit, by appointment, to the new premises meant an introduction to the knowledgeable Julie. She seemed to know where most of the internet titles could be located and I left with a box load of surprises. Prices were slightly high but the quality could not be faulted. - Chris Harte 13.06.13.
**Moved to Buckley in October 2013. - TBG 23.12.13.
Visited them in Unit 4, by appointment. The storage area is huge and I would have no idea how many (tens of ??)thousands of books line the narrow wooden shelves. Although mainly an internet organisation the titles I briefly saw were of some substance. Go with your 'Wants List' - as nowhere near the full stock can be listed online - and Julie will hopefully find what you want. - Chris Harte 02.01.14.
The people who run this bookshop are both friendly and efficient with a vast knowledge of their stock...we could not fault them and will use them again in the future..FANTASTIC! - Netty 10.03.14.
Black Pug Books
The Old Gallery
24 West Borough
WIMBORNE Dorset BH21 1NF map
tel: 01202 889383
Open: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10.00 - 6.00
Highly varied mix of stock, but no paperbacks or book club editions. Smallish room in private house. Tea and coffee happily offered in home surroundings.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA wonderful bookshop with a great variety of really good books. Thoroughly recommended! - David Aston 22.02.18.
Blackwell's Rare Books
48-51 Broad Street
OXFORD Oxfordshire OX1 3BQ map
tel: 01865 333555 e-mail web
Open: Monday & Wednesday - Saturday 9.00 - 6.00, Tuesday 9.30 - 6.00.
Blackwell's Rare Books buys and sells rare and collectable books in all fields, especially modern first editions, private press and antiquarian books on subjects from literature and philosophy to medicine and topography, including early printing and fine bindings.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThere are two major second hand sections in the main flagship Blackwell's store. The antiquarian section on the first floor which is very much the specialist and high end antiquarian market, and the second hand section on the third floor. Prices are high, but because it offers decent prices to sellers it has an excellent range and quality, especially of recent academic books. - George Marshall 06.02.09.
The secondhand section on 3rd floor has been permanently reduced to about half the area it previously occupied. It now feels very claustrophobic. - David Loach 16.03.11.
I was once a regular shopper in Oxford until the council declared war on motorists. This was therefore my first visit to Blackwells for quite some time. Still the best new bookshop in Oxford and now also the best general secondhand shop - not because it has improved but because all my old favourites (e.g., Waterfiields) are no longer there. So Blackwells must be doing something right! - Steven Whitehead 18.07.12.
Excellent stock whether it be specialist or general fiction, The real rub are the prices. Even Oxfam could not match these. £5.50 for a second hand paperback is excessive. - Jon Morgan 25.08.12. - Paul O 14.09.12.
The top floor is all hush and creaking floorboards, but doesn't quite measure up to the ambiance. Very good selections of modern fiction and Penguin Classics (but expensive). Practically nothing in foreign languages. Loads of dusty, expired literary criticism. - Paul O 14.09.12.
The upstairs general secondhand has shrinking stock and space. Two things don't change, however: the prices remain very high and if you want to sell books don't expect to get a reply to an email. - Andrew 30.11.12.
The second-hand section has moved down to the second floor and feels more accessible. There's a better selection of foreign literature and also some early Penguins at low prices. Definitely more to tempt me. - Paul O -03.07.13.
The general secondhand and antiquarian departments now rub shoulders with one another on the second floor - you're in no doubt where the antiquarian section starts but new books seem to be encroaching on the secondhand area. A handsome array of expensive New Naturalists greets you as you get to the top of the stairs. Prices otherwise aren't too steep but one feels they are very assiduously market-checked. Don't expect any bargains. - Steven Kelly 26.01.16.
As above latest comment. No bargains but some decent prices for a large variety of recently deleted history and politics and the like. - Norman Davies 07.04.16.
First visit here in years. Considerable shrinkage and overpriced. We have more on our own shelves. Disappointing. - David 04.01.19.
Book
17 Merrial Street
NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME Staffordshire ST5 2AE map
tel: 01782 630201 e-mail
Open: 7 days 9.30 - 4.30.
Our stock is mainly second-hand but we do carry a number of new books. We have a good History. Military and Transport sections. All visitors from outside of our immediate area will be given Coffee or Tea.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWorth a visit. Rather an 'old-fashioned' feel to it (same with the stall on Stafford market): plenty of rather scruffy - but quite interesting and even uncommon - titles. Parking nearby. - Andrew Bradley 18.07.14.
Bookcase
17-19 Castle Street
CARLISLE Cumbria CA3 8SY map
tel: 01228 544560 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Large general stock and specifically books on Cumbria, literature and natural history. Probably the largest bookstore in the north, with over 30 rooms, 4 floors and 300,000 books in store.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA big shop spread throughout a large old building a few minutes walk from Carlisle city centre, towards the castle. From the science fiction & fantasy on the second floor to the children's section in the basement, this Victorian(?) building displays so much of its character that there are times when you actually forget about the books as you walk around, marvelling at their various staircases or stepping into the strong room in the depths of the basement. Yet don't let the building distract you from the book selection which is no let down either as it has very good coverage of most subjects. - Jeremy Briggs
Finding this bookshop alone made the journey from East Anglia worthwhile. Fair prices with a quantity discount offered. A colossal, well organised stock. The hours just slipped past in this treasure trove of a bookshop. - Stuart Tucker 02.12.08.
When I was young I was told that if I was good I would go to heaven. Now I'm old if I promise to try to be good can I go to Bookcase? This shop is the ultimate of its kind. How many books? 100,000? More? Certainly not less. All categories and tastes are catered for here. Young but knowledgable, understanding, polite and helpful staff. It is heaven. I know it is. - Chris Harte 15.02.10.
Fantastic shop to browse in but weird prices make it hard to buy from. - PaulP 10.06.10.
Chris Harte is right: this is Heaven. When money and time allows, I often make the trip from Edinburgh to Carlisle just to visit this shop. It's a fantatsic place to wander around with the books neatly displayed and easy to find. Also a good range of CDs. You will need a good few hours to do it justice. Only complaint is that it's a little pricey. Also check out a shop selling new books just along the street. Its owned by the same people and has many tempting remainders. - Ken Bogle 23.06.11.
Spent many a happy half day here sheltering from the rain! Fantastic place to browse, well organised and although my wallet tells me they are a little on the pricey side I always come away with a box full. - Norman Davies 30.07.11.
You need at least half a day to do this shop justice. Paradoxically I found little that I didn't already have. The staff are friendly, knowledgable and found things very quickly. There is a room for rarer, more valuable books. It is good to see a bookshop that is expanding when so many are closing. - CB 10.08.13.
This is one of the best secondhand bookshops I have ever visited in this country and I have visited a great many over the years. It has an enormous stock and I came away with plenty in my field of history, politics, etc, but there's much else besides. I gathered from the owner that he intends to open a café in the building, which will make things even better. If you love books and you are anywhere in the north-west, go visit it. - Geoffrey Warner 21.11.13.
Can only agree it is a paradise of books... But I'm conflicted - i really want to recommend it but prices range from ok-ish expensive (such as paperback novels) to ludicrous - common books two sometimes three times what I have paid elsewhere. But if there is something you really really want there is a good chance they'll have it. - Yossarian 04.12.13.
It is easy to see why some buyers would love this outwardly impressive shop, as there are lots and lots of books spread throughout a large number of rooms, and I'm sure, going by previous reviews, that it is ticking the right boxes for many of its customers. However, the specific topics in which I'm interested were represented by a fairly bland, boring and over-priced selection (the sort of stuff that in many places appears on the bargain shelves), giving every indication that the interesting items had either long gone or were being hived off elsewhere (an all too frequent occurrence in these days of internet selling). Of course, this may not be the case with every subject, but despite the sheer volume of material I left without opening my wallet.
For those who collect CDs it is worth noting that there is an enormous selection here, but my children tell me that everyone wants vinyl these days. - Nicholas Pendower 18.07.14.
Revisited. Still one of the biggest and best: I found stock in general had changed so WWAD. Bought pile of politics/general. Note expanding in May to include the new/remainder Bookcase shop from up the road + new cafe. - Norman Davies 29.04.16.
Enjoyed a flying visit with two friends recently. Shop is certainly large enough to lose yourself in with four floors & over 100k books. I felt my SF specialism was equally underwhelming & overpriced but I still diligently made four purchases & the new rear café is rather nice. - Darania 27.08.16.
Back at Carlisle after nearly 5 years. Found the large shop not quite as good as it used to be. Poor small room, on the 1st floor, for British travel items - very messy. Did buy another good Middleton Press railway item from the Transport room; for £10. - Chris K 25.05.17.
This shop has a very extensive stock, ranging from its basement full of sheet music to its top floor full of theology, and in between most other subjects you could wish to find. The prices for items about Cumbria and related areas are exactly what any experienced browser would anticipate: you don't go to Carlisle in order to buy books about the Lake District unless you have a very friendly bank manager. The prices elsewhere tend to be high, as others before me have observed - increasingly of late. The point to make, perhaps, is that if this system works it makes available an excellent range and variety of books. But one does recognize a fair number of old friends on the shelves (last there 2013), so one does wonder about whether a lower average price might not do the trick more effectively. Of one thing there can be no doubt, however, and that's the quality of the tea room. First rate! - The Bookman 06.07.17.
The cafe is wonderful - accessed down an alleyway at the side of the building or through the bookshop itself. If the weather is good then sit in the garden and contemplate your purchases - it would be hard not to come away with anything from here. Lots of time needed to peruse the four floors of books - plus a memory good enough to remember which rooms you've already looked through and a sat nav to find the exit! Prices are fair but not excessive. Room of new books next to the cafe. Plenty of fellow customers on a summer Saturday, those I spoke to had similar glowing comments about Bookcase. Came out with a small stack and could have bought more. A return visit is planned soon! - Graeme Rendall 09.08.18.
Visited again yesterday after several years and it is definitely on the up with a smart basement cafe and incorporating new books in an attached shop. I have some sympathy with price criticisms (i.e. two vg copies of a h/b at £10 each, and then found another at £14) but it's the "luck of the draw". Recommended. - S+S 09.08.18.
Why haven't I been to Carlisle and found this shop years ago - Chris Harte is quite right! The only problem is that one spends a lot of one's first visit working out what's where! Some prices a bit on the high side, perhaps. The cafe looked good but was standing room only when we visited. Certainly WAD! - Henry Middleton 15.10.18.
Bookfinders
47 University Road
BELFAST BT7 1ND map
tel: 02890 328269
Open: 10.00 - 5.00 Monday - Saturday.
Modern first editions, poetry, literature and history.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAs its address suggests, this is close to the campus of Queen's University, Belfast, and is much frequented by students. As well as a small, but interesting, selection of secondhand books, it boasts a cafe which sells much better food than your run-of-the-mill Waterstone's/Border's, etc. and at a much lower cost! - Geoffrey Warner.
Very civilised combination of a bookshop with a coffee shop. Haunt of well fed aesthetes! Good for academic texts and course books. Mary Denvir also keeps a good Irish section and excellent literary books. - Aidan O'loan.
Books Afloat
66 Park Street
WEYMOUTH Dorset DT4 7DE map
tel: 01305 779774
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Good general stock on two floors whilst specialising in maritime and naval subjects, very
much cover all subjects so something for everybody! Also genuine nautical antiques, ships
bells ,models, die cast toys, clockwork trains, old postcards,paintings etc. Park Street is directly opposite Weymouth Railway Station and very handy for the town and harbour and beach.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWorth visiting even if you have no interest in their specialities. - TBG.
Good stock of most transport areas at reasonable prices. Friendly and knowledgeable owner. I am a regular visitor, new stock often available. - Paul Simpson. 15.11.10.
Wonderful bookshop, with excellent selections of naval, maritime, yachting and local interest new & secondhand books, also ship models & memorabilia. Shop very close to railway station. Well worth a visit. - Mark Barrett 12.04.11.
What a wonderful place that is! Splendid second hand bookshop. I wish I would live closer to this place, alas! I´don´t. Maybe it´s for the better. If I could return, like I would, I´d bring a lorry. - Ralf 18.07.11.
Unbeatable for marine but also good on topography and fiction. - Herne 20.07.11.
Excellent bookshop. Good selection of railway books, local memorabilia and fiction in addition to nautical books. Intended just to pop in but spent an hour browsing and buying. Helpful, friendly owner and certainly recommend a visit.- Steve Brissle 29.07.13.
Excellent shop over two floors - reasonable prices. Have certainly had some bargains there over the years. Parking nearby as well as railway station. Well worth a detour. - The Drifter 22.08.13.
With its bow-fronted upper floor, close-packed shelves, and marine curiosities hanging in every available inch, the first impression is almost Dickensian. But quirkiness aside, its affable owner runs a tight ship. Everything's well-organised and there are finds to be had. Local history and literature are a specialism: for example, I discovered rare titles by West Country-related authors John Cowper Powys and T.F. Powys. Perfect when you've had enough of the beach. - Paul O 29.08.14.
Little gems take finding, this is a gem. Unique shop, great stock. Helpful owner. - Bazza 22.02.18.
Books Revisited (Charity Bookshop)
110 High Street
Coleshill
BIRMINGHAM West Midlands B46 3BL map
tel: 01675 464 853 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 4.00.
Fiction, children's, sport, travel, art, history, auto/biography, gardening, cookery, literature, CDs + DVDs, foreign language, humour, music, entertainment and some antiquarian and collectables. We probably have close to 25,000 books and are able to check stock rooms upon request. A charity Bookshop with 4 rooms on a small High Street. We are located in an old building with a lot of character and all proceeds go to the Mary Ann Evans Hospice, a local charity.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsVisited Saturday afternoon after finding free 1hr parking in a side street. The front room is well stocked with popular paperbacks, the back room downstairs is filled with children's books. Upstairs the back room is music, Vinyl, CD's & DVD's. The 2 front rooms upstairs are non fiction and hold some magazines. I came away empty handed as I found the WWII, Military History, naval/maritime sections poorly stocked. I certainly don't feel they hold as much as the advertised 25,000 books as it took me only 5-10 mins to look over this charity shops holdings. - Laurence Batchelor 22.03.14.
A gem of a town with free parking nearby. I was a little late and had little time to browse. There was a good selection of modern hard back and paperback fiction. The staff were very courteous but were shutting up shop and assured me that there was little space to display in the premises but the stores were extensive. Worth going early and worming ones way in there.This place is a short drive from Astley and a wander around the small but interesting town is highly recommended. Fantastic old buildings and so close to Birmingham. - Jon Morgan 07.10.14.
A return visit after 4 years and pleasantly this high street charity shop has become enlarged. Stock is spread in 2 rooms downstairs - popular fiction and Children's and then with 3 rooms upstairs containing music, non-fiction and magazines etc. Pricing was very reasonable and every main area of interest seemed catered for. Came away with a bag load. Free parking in Morrison's for 2 hours a short walk away. - Laurence Batchelor 30.08.18.
Ditto for me, back after 4 years and if anything it is even better. Good general stock, Excellent military! (females serving in RAF section - sorry, I emptied it !). I was allowed into the back store too (Next time upstairs!!!) and scored a few more ! Worthy of the Driff accolade WAD! - Jonathan Morgan 15.09.18.
BooksIsell
85 High Street
NEWPORT Shropshire TF10 7AY map
tel: 01952 811683 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
30,000+ used books. Not all on display but on premises including 6,000+ online books (listed on Amazon/Abebooks under Severnbooks). Inexpensive pricing. New owner from February 2015 who welcomes fellow book lovers and collectors. He's turned his hobby into his retirement business!
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsI asked the owner when he was open and his reply was 'when I'm here, which is most of the time'. (This obviously isn't quite true as I'd phoned at different times over four days before catching him on the fifth attempt - so be warned.) I asked about his stock and he said that he 'didn't have any books people would want to buy'. - TBG 20.05.10.
Now under new ownership from 23rd February 2015. As the new owner, I'm poacher turned gamekeeper, having turned my passion for visiting bookshops into an occupation. Am looking forward to seeing you all from the other side of the desk! - Brian Stringer 26.02.15.
Huge quantity of books but although in subjects, disorganised within subjects and lots of boxes. Can find a goodie by much rummaging, so have a look if you are passing as it is literally in the middle of the town in the main street. - Norman Davies 13.05.17.
Decided to take a trip out to Newport this afternoon only to find this shop was closed despite the opening times declaring the shop as open until 4pm... we arrived at about 2.30pm. - Martin R 01.02.18.
Boz Books
13a Castle Street
HAY-ON-WYE Powys HR3 5DF map
tel: 01497 821277 fax: 01497 821277 e-mail web
Open: Usually open Wednesdays & Saturdays
A small general secondhand bookshop established in 1989. While catering for a wide variety of subjects, my special interest is 19th Century English Literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA charming owner who was extremely helpful in showing me the sections of his shop which contained books relating to my interests. His specialist subjects are nineteenth-century authors with a preference for Dickens. Many fine bindings on show. - Chris Harte 18.08.10.
An excellent bookshop with a wide ranging stock including quirky off the wall subjects. They specialise in 19th century literature and feature many very collectable first editions - including Charles Dickens. Peter, the owner, is a charming man with an in depth knowledge of books and a fantastic sense of humour. The prices are very reasonable and stock turns over quickly and therefore regular visits pay dividends. - KS 06.10.11.
A recommended shop with a good wide ranging stock and a knowledgeable friendly and humorous owner. Worth asking if you can't see what you want as much else available that for space reasons cannot always be displayed. Worth a detour and parking nearby. - The Drifter 22.08.13.
On the Button. 9/10. - The Boxer 17.09.13.
Small, but interesting and friendly. - James Mackay 14.06.14.
A pleasant owner with good wit and conversation. Many fine bindings within this small one-room shop. The best books are stored behind glass, but I was allowed free access. I found a huge book case stuffed with military/naval books and therefore I did purchase 2. The Blue Boar inn opposite is also WWAD to rest tired legs and quench the book searchers thirst. - Laurence Batchelor 19.07.14.
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. Unless you are a dickens freak! (He's good but not the only author in the world!) - Jon Morgan 16.09.14.
Excellent wide-ranging selection at reasonable prices. Well worth a detour. - The Drifter 22.10.14.
I understand from one of the other shop owners that Box is closing down / has closed down - certainly it looked shut and empty with a for sale sign on the building! - Jonathan Morgan 15.09.18.
Brian P. Martin Antiquarian and Collectors' Books
Christique
11 West Street
DORKING Surrey RH4 1BL map
tel: 01428 682567 or 07773112101 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
A large stock of good quality books on many subjects, including Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, London and other topography, naval & military, sports, fine bindings, poetry, literature, children's, history and much much more. Christique has an excellent cafe and nearby parking.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsProbably around 1,500 books. The categories highlighted by the owner appear to be represented but there are not necessarily many in each category. - Steve 31.10.12.
Went today and was most disappointed. Basically this is an Antiques shop with a few shelves of books. - Ian P 19.05.15.
Broadhursts of Southport Ltd
5-7 Market Street
SOUTHPORT Merseyside PR8 1HD map
tel: 01704 532064 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.30.
New books, and a very large secondhand stock covering a wide range of subjects, including the arts, architecture, children's, literature and fine books.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsLarge stock on three levels. Look hard enough in every classification for what you are seeking. - Chris Harte 14.04.09.
What antiquarian book shops used to be like! Good interesting stock at all price ranges, with some very uncommon titles I was pleased to buy. Well laid out, and organised. Open fires, knowledgable and friendly staff. Excellent! - Robert Brown (Bookdealer) 29.06.09.
Still there. Still a superb old fashioned shop with extensive stock and knowledgeable staff. Always worth a visit. - Norman Davies 12.07.12.
Absolutely top quality bookshop. A little like stepping back in time and discussing books with a very urbane, pleasant gentleman. I spent £50 on one book, good value and I just couldn't refuse. - CB 06.04.13.
My favourite shop! An interesting selection of new books on the ground floor, a very good stock of children's books on the first floor and masses of antiquarian and secondhand books everywhere else. Staff friendly and knowledgeable. - Michael 21.11.13.
Friendly, courteous, with old world charm. Offers both collectable higher end books and very reasonably priced general stock. A pleasure to visit. - Mark V 28.05.16.
Short walk from Parkinsons also just off Lord Street. The ground floor is a very good new book shop so there is probably less secondhand stock on the other floors than Parkinsons and it is (from my point of view) a bit less diverse but still better than most and prices still reasonable. - John Allen 28.03.18.
Still as good as ever. Ground floor new books contain a large holding of local publications. Upper floors are a dream for both general visitors and collectors. I spent well into three figures on titles and am very pleased to have purchased some excellent books. WWAD. - Chris Harte 14.06.18.
Caledonia Books
483 Great Western Road
GLASGOW Lanarkshire G12 8HL map
tel: 0141 334 9663 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 6.00.
Large good quality general stock, some antiquarian and particularly literature, the visual arts and Scottish books.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsBig shop with a great selection of books over two rooms and an attic - probably the biggest of the Hillhead bookshops and, for me, the very definition of a good second hand bookshop. - Jeremy Briggs.
Caledonia Books is pretty hard to beat for quantity of stock and variety of subject matter,but don?t expect any bargains. - Allan Campbell 06.03.09.
Impressively large selection covering all areas. Not bargains but well laid out and worth a look. - Norman Davies 10.06.10.
Has recently changed with one room converted into a hairdresser but the basement has been opened. Nicely laid out but the stock doesn't seem to change very much and a little pricey. - Ken Bogle 30.03.11.
Why are people so thick? Of course Caledonia is one of the best shops in Scotland and of course it isn't stuffed full of bargains. They PAY for the books, SIFT out the cr*p and pay WAGES to staff. I give up ... - Steve Liddle 07.07.11.
Good shop this - well laid out, interesting stock, consistently good nick. Agree the only shame is lowish turnover of stock ... returning one year on I felt as though little was new. - Neil Goodlad 18.09.12.
I spent at least two hours here going through all three floor levels of books. Very pleasant co-owner who tried to assist with my wants, but in vain. Always worth a visit as the subject matters are varied but, obviously, strongly Scottish. - Chris Harte 30.11.12.
Update from visit this week - same view as June 2010! Agree last 2 comments above but I did buy a couple of decent items so worth a look. - Norman Davies 24.11.15.
Camden Lock Books
Old Street Station
4 Saint Agnes Well
THE CITY London EC1Y 1BE map
tel: 02072 530666 02072 530 666 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 8.30 - 7.00, Saturday 12.00 - 5.30.
We have a back room with great general secondhand,collectable, antiquarian, photographic, travel, fine bindings, literature, first editions, art, fashion, sport, military, ephemera, architecture, miniatures, childrens', natural history, and local history books. Camden Lock Books, located in Old Street Station, is also one of the Capitals most iconic independent new bookshops(+ dealership in ECM Jazz CDs).
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsIf having two locked bookcases filled with 'fine bindings' (sic) qualifies as a second-hand bookshop then this is it. Otherwise this is an Underground Station shop selling new books and cards. - Chris Harte 31.05.14.
We have about 500 books in glass cabinets, all catalogued and listed online; also there are about 500 unlisted, uncatalogued titles on open shelves. - Jason Burley, Camden Lock Books 22.12.14.
Some sympathy with Chris Harte here. Mostly new books and not a bad stock given the cramped premises, some remainders at decent prices. The second hand stock in what is effectively a small cupboard without a door at the back is almost none existent. The hype does not reflect the reality. Iconic ???? - Jon Morgan 23.10.15.
Things have changed since the visits of Messrs Harte and Morgan, above. The cramped and poorly-lit back room is packed tight with secondhand and remaindered stock on photography, art and fashion. The photography holdings alone number several hundred and include some obscurities and oddities; I was glad to find a homage to William Carlos Williams by Thomas Roma and Robert Coles. Prices are generally reasonable but sometimes ambitious. Cheerful staff. - Nicholas Sack 24.06.17.
A return visit to browse the extensive photography stock in the cramped back room. New, remaindered and secondhand books are intermingled. Unfortunately, prices are such that you are highly unlikely to score a bargain. One particular secondhand monograph was priced at 90 pounds when copies are available online for 30. - Nicholas Sack 23.10.18.
Candle Lane Books
28 Princess Street
SHREWSBURY Shropshire SY1 1LW map
tel: 01743 365301
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9.30 - 4.00, Thursday 9.30 - 12.30,
Rare books, first editions, bindings, literature and local topography.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAn amazing find, tucked away behind The Square in the centre of Shrewsbury, and spread over four floors (though the attic one is quite small). Strong on antiquarian, and of course Shropshire topography and local history, also children's books. A higher proportion of the stock than is usual in bookshops these days seems to be from the first half of the last century (and before) - though hopefully this is not a sign of low turnover! I only made one purchase, but I'm sure if I'd had more time I should have been able to find more. - Henry Middleton 15.10.09.
Like the previous reviewer, I have to agree that this shop was a really good find when visiting the town. Very clean and tidy with a good quality stock - many books in original dust jackets. Very strong on county and general topography - probably on all other subjects too. The item I purchased was wrapped in brown paper with the name of the shop (a really nice touch). - The Brummie Bookman 16.07.11.
As other reviewers have said, this is a most wonderful shop. Family owned, it shows love and attention throughout all of the rooms. Each area is categorised and for my specialities it was like being a child again in a room full of chocolate. I gorged on the titles and ended up by buying 32 volumes (and they took a cheque without question!). - Chris Harte 18.06.12.
What should be a great shop in a great building and well located, was a bit of a disappointment. The stock is mainly pre 1970's but is generally in poor condition, maybe the good stuff has been bought up over the last couple of years. It is in need of an injection of fresh stock. That being said, I bought quite a few obscure fiction titles at very good prices so will return again! - The Travelling Bookdealer 24.08.13.
Visited this shop recently having read the glowing comments [admittedly quite old now] I was a little disappointed - the owners may be losing the fight against Oxfam [despite Oxfam's prices customers THINK they are cheaper than proper bookshops. - Mary 17.10.16.
Castle Books
20A Church Street
BEAUMARIS Anglesey LL58 8AB map
tel: 0124 8811394 or 07835 927 541 e-mail
Castle Books has moved just a few yards to its own premises just past the Post Office and opposite the parish church. History, Welsh interest, archaeology, travel, walking, maps, natural history and rural affairs, literature, Penguins, Ladybirds, Tunnicliffe, Observers, good transport section. Ever changing stock, friendly book chat, booksearch, fair prices, books bought. Credit/debit cards accepted. The only bookshop on Anglesey. Stockist for Anglesey Antiquarian Society, Gwynedd Archaeological Trust.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsJust arrived after more than an hour's journey to find the curse of the "we're closed today" card on the door. Looking through the windows I can't see a reason to call again. Needs some decent stock. - TC1842 15.09.14.
Checked my daybook - was open all day all week - I am open when I say I am - not sure what this refers to. - Mandi Abrahams 12.12.14.
Wide ranging good reasonably priced stock. Very friendly and helpful owner. Look forward to coming again. - Lesley 12.12.14.
Like a previous reviewer found to his annoyance, shop closed when I visited. - Chris Harte 24.10.15.
Closed when I visited this week but to be fair a sign indicating family illness. - Norman Davies 26.07.16.
This shop is a mess with piles of unsorted books - many unpriced. Not enough room to pass another customer in shop. Owner uninterested and rude.
No set opening hours. Avoid at all costs. - Merv 04.09.17.
Cheltenham Rare Books
12 Imperial Square
CHELTENHAM Gloucestershire GL50 1QB map
tel: 01242 361594 e-mail
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
A wide range of rare and collectible literature and illustrated works. Emphasis on condition and quality. Books bought on all subjects. Located next door to Peter Lyons Books - one journey, two shops!
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsI love going into bookshops where the owner greets you and then spends time assisting with your various queries. If only more bookshops could be as customer friendly as this one. Alas, I had a frustrating visit as all the books I would have purchased were already on my shelves. This did not worry my new friend one bit as he shook hands as I left. I will most certainly return (and, hopefully, then find something I want). - Chris Harte 24.05.16.
Not open on Tuesday 7th Nov 2017. Wonder if opening hours have changed? - BookfinderGeneral 20.11.17.
Would seem that they have - I've updated them now TBG 20.11.17.
Chevin Books
Bay Horse Court
OTLEY West Yorkshire LS21 1SP map
tel: 01943 466599
Open: Thursday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Stock includes art, history, literature, military, sport and topography.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsNever seem to have in stock any books of my wide interests. - Chris Harte 14.04.09.
Small pleasant bookshop, and, interestingly, usually has the books I'm looking for. - Don Vine 20.12.10.
Good selection. Hard to beat on price too. - Jon Davis 28.08.12.
Good selection and fair prices. Pleasant and helpful staff. I rarely leave without a purchase, and never regret it. - Twizzle 10.01.13.
Visited this shop today, bought 2 books and intend to go back. This is a serious 2nd hand bookshop with mostly hardback books. Reasonable prices too. I spoke with a member of staff who was not only very friendly and helpful but clearly bookish and knowledgable. - Nick 18.05.18.
Clevedon Community Bookshop
27-29 Copse Road
CLEVEDON Somerset BS21 7QN map
tel: 01275 218318 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 10.00 - 5.00 Summer, 10.00 - 4.00 Winter.
Secondhand books, a general stock of 8,000 books in the shop plus another 10,000 in our book store. We also sell online through AbeBooks, Amazon and Biblio.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWhat a joy to deal with the lovely volunteers who run this shop. All pre-visit queries were answered by phone and email which meant the titles I was wanting were ready for inspection (and purchase) on arrival. Four ground floor rooms over two shops, beautifully kept; properly categorised and the taunting news that another 10,000 titles were in store waiting to fill holes in the shelves. Hot drinks supplied gratis and conversation of the highest order. Do please put this shop on your visiting list. - Chris Harte 19.01.13.
Good stock, helpful staff and reasonable prices. Worth a visit. - Steve Brissle 01.05.13.
Agree well organised good selection. Worth a look, just a little ABE-ish prices on older books. Note: park by pier and walk up signposted footpath. - Norman Davies 28.02.15.
Excellent little shop. Came away with a bagful one of which was reduced by the staff when we expressed interest in it but thought it too expensive. Will definitely visit again. - David 29.09.17.
I made the financial mistake of introducing my wife to this excellent shop. She was thrilled with what she found and obtained nearly two dozen titles. My purchases only just reached double figures. However, a revisit here is scheduled for six weeks time. WWAD. - Chris 23.10.17.
I'm more than happy to second the praise of other customers of this shop after visiting it recently. The range of books for sale is considerable: everything from academic texts to children's books, via poetry, biographies, novels (classical and modern) - all clearly displayed and reasonably priced. I even noticed a shelf full of Pelican books, many of which are out of print. - Geoffrey Warner 13.11.17.
Clitheroe Books
29 Moor Lane
CLITHEROE Lancashire BB7 1BE map
tel: 01200 444242 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00.
General stock as well as children's, literature and transport.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsSuperb, wide selection. Very pleasant shop with a knowledgeable owner. - Stephen Almond 06.02.09.
A rather austere place. The owner soon became known to me as "Dr No," for he answered my eleven question with just that two letter word: nothing else. Felt unwelcome. - Chris Harte 27.07.09.
Always lovingly looked after and with large stock of good quality books. Usually leave with several books. This visit was no different. Also child friendly and that's such a selling point. - Doc 29.08.15.
A lovely shop, spacious, bright and well-ordered. All subjects are represented, and though the stock is not large it punches above its weight in terms of quality, condition and interest. Dustwrappers are protected with clear film, a careful touch I always appreciate, making the books sparkle on the shelves. Clitheroe is well worth a visit: streets of small independent shops, ginnels and yards, a castle and not just one, but now two, secondhand book shops. - TravellingLibrary 03.09.15.
Nice shop, usually make at least one purchase, agree above re Clitheroe but didn't find another bookshop? Chatty proprietor too. - Norman Davies 06.02.17.
College Street Books
15 College Street
AMMANFORD Carmarthenshire SA18 3AB map
tel: 01269 592140 e-mail
Open: Monday & Saturday 9.30 - 1.00, Tuesday - Friday 9.30 - 5.00.
New and secondhand books, about 50/50. Particularly Welsh interest, maps and walking, history, warfare, art, mythology, poetry, literature, and children's books in Welsh & English.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAlthough the name suggests otherwise the entrance to this pleasant shop is from an arcade which runs parallel to the main window. Strong on Welsh subjects and a very good selection of books on mining. Although there are new books as well it is worth a visit if you are passing. - Chris Harte 11.07.13.
Cooper Hay Rare Books
185a Bath Street
GLASGOW Lanarkshire G2 4HU map
tel: 0141 221 3922 fax: 0141 221 3922 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 10.00 - 5.30, Saturday by appointment.
Quality secondhand and antiquarian books, particularly art, literature, illustrated, children's, bindings and Scottish books.
Add a comment
Cornish Bookworm
Foundry Shopping Village (formerly Pratt's Market)
Chapel Terrace Foundry Square
HAYLE Cornwall TR27 4AB map
tel: 07729 759 315 e-mail
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 11.00 - 4.00.
Wide range of Cornish Books including family history, archaeology, mining, marine, antiquity, literature and local history. Leather books and fine bindings bought and sought. Please note times may vary. Please feel free to telephone to check opening times especially if travelling.
Add a comment
Daisyroots Books Ltd
Main Street
GRANGE-OVER-SANDS Cumbria LA11 6DP map
tel: 015395 38817 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.00.
Extensive stock of collectable and contemporary titles in sought-after subjects. Over 20,000 books on two floors. Famous for fiction. Friendly, independent family business established in 1994. Book searches undertaken. Free roadside parking opposite. Town centre car park within 5 minutes walk. All major credit/debit cards accepted.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsPrices to make the eyes water. - Gareth James 03.07.13.
I have to agree with the previous reviewer, within a couple of minutes it was obvious that the " good" stuff was way pricey. A brief look at the modern firsts clarified this and common titles in questionable condition were top-end fine/fine internet prices. - The Travelling Bookdealer 24.08.13.
Dave's Books
Unit 006 (next to the tea rooms)
Royal Arcade 127-131 Lord Street
SOUTHPORT Merseyside PR8 1PU map
Open: 7 days 9.00 - 5.00.
A wide range of books, mainly out-of-print as well as popular fiction, a good selection of vintage ladybird books, Enid Blyton paperbacks, old sf and fantasy, super-hero comics, anything I think interesting.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsVery small unit in an antiques/curios centre. Mixed stock of mild interest but worth a look. - Mark V 28.05.16.
An untidy mess of a few shelves of books which seem destined for the local tip. Utter rubbish. Should not even be recorded in this bookguide. - Chris Harte 14.06.18.
David Jarman
1 Pipe Passage
LEWES East Sussex BN7 1YG map
tel: 01273 480744
Open: Unknown
General secondhand stock but particularly art and literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA small shop on two floors in narrow lane just off the High Street. - Richard.
Friendly owner who regularly gives (unrequested) discounts if you buy three or four books. Stock does not change very often, but is high quality and very reasonbably priced. - Matthew Barr 02.04.09.
Small stock - lot of biography. No one worried me as I sat and read my way through part of the stock. Questions answered courteously but staff did not appear greatly interested in their customer. - h442 28.07.10.
The curse of the closed bookshop! How do these people stay in business?Frustratingly closed at 2.30 pm on a Saturday with no indication of hours on the window or when or indeed whether it would be open again. Looked good from the oustide. Off the high street down a small alley mid way between Cummings and the 15th century book shop (oppositeside of the road). - Jon Morgan 14.08.12.
According to other booksellers in town, he is still open erratically, but the phone isn't currently working. - TBG 26.03.13.
This is a most strange set-up. People working in offices on both floors with full bookshelves in the entrance hall and on the landing staircase. Stock of a general nature. - Chris Harte 06.09.13
Blink and you miss Pipe Passage. Good stock and prices. The owner is apparently usually present on Saturdays, otherwise it is service from the friendly staff in the other office(s)working on the premises. But do take cash and note they don't seem to have access to change! - Michael Ross 10.10.15.br /> Still there. Small stock and you need the right change. The first shelf is completely in sunlight so all the books are pretty much bleached. Second shelf is mostly biography. - Inverdale's Rug 02.09.16.
On my Thursday afternoon visit, 7th of September, this was shut. - Chris K 15.09.17.
Didsbury Village Bookshop
(Adjoining Art of Tea Cafe)
47 Barlow Moor Road Didsbury
MANCHESTER Gt. Manchester M20 6TW map
tel: 0845 521 3879 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 10.00. - 10.00.
Best, quality used-bookshop in Manchester. Surprisingly large, adjoining relaxed cafe. Best in history, fiction, philosophy, art, children's, poetry, languages, music, mysteries. Run by retired poly sci lecturer who loves good talk. Fair prices, few rare books, no junk.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsVeni, vidi, nil vendi. I came, I saw, no sale. Sorry but while I liked the shop and the chaos, I was not impressed with the prices. £3.00 for an average paperback is excessive, when most other secondhand bookshops and almost all charity shops sell them for around half that or less. I hope they can survive with the present pricing but sadly I doubt it. - The Wanderer 26.07.13.
I disagree with the last comment, I found the prices to be fair and bought 3 books at what was a good price, the owner is very helpful and the carrot cake is super! - Geoff Martin 14.06.14.
I agree with the first comment re pricing but must point out this is well worth a visit for the superb cafe and the range and number of books even if you don't come away with a boxfull. - Norman Davies 05.02.15.
On the one hand, lots here, from pulp sci-fi to Folios and First Editions. On the other, cluttered and messy, with books strewn on the floor, paperbacks often grubby and over-priced, sometimes twice the price in an average charity shop. Worth a visit, definitely, but those prices may put you off. - Archy 14.07.16.
Friendly owner, relaxed atmosphere but I agree that books prices are steep: eg, books worth £8 are £10-12. Came away with one book. - Johanken 26.04.18.
Doolin Dinghy
Fisherstreet
DOOLIN Co. Clare
tel: (0) 65 707 4449 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday (March to November), December - February ring ahead.
A good stock of out of print and unusual books, specialising in Irish interest, English and American literature, travel, children's, biographies etc. Also a stall of classic and modern paperbacks for the backpacker, paper memorabilia and postcards for ephemera collectors.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAn admirable idea. Places like Doolin need shops like this- but please reduce the stock by half so a visitor can actually see what is on offer. I was frustrated because I suspect that I missed books I would have purchased if I could have seen/reached them. - Loyola 13.04.17.
Dreadnought Books
125 St Georges Road
Hotwells
BRISTOL BS1 5UW map
tel: 01173 293176 e-mail web
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00.
Dreadnought Books is a second-hand and out of print bookshop specialising in history, with a particular focus on military, social and labour history. We also have extensive sections of politics, philosophy, the arts and literature. We also buy books, particularly in our specialist fields. Please get in touch if you have anything you think we might be interested in.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsSmall but well chosen stock. Most erratic pricing I've ever seen; £1-2 bargains and eyewatering mark-ups (£20 for not especially rare p/back) in equal measure. Recommended, but you're at the mercy of the pricing wheel of fortune. - CP 03.03.14.
An excellent well laid out shop with realistically priced books. Wide ranging regularly changing stock. Knowledgeable friendly owner. Free parking nearby. Well worth a detour. Strongly recommended. - The Drifter 19.04.14.
Small shop but well stocked with good quality books at reasonable prices. Recommended. - SteveBrissle 17.10.14.
I drifted around this very neat and tidy bookshop trying really hard to find books of my interests. The general nature of the holdings really brought home to me how difficult it must be for bookdealers to find anything special anymore. - Chris Harte 15.11.14.
Attractive and well laid out shop. Excellent for history and politics and some interesting general stock. Friendly approachable owner. Pricing can be erratic but makes life more interesting and possible bargains ! Well worth a visit. - Mo H 19.11.14.
Excellent wide-ranging selection of books. Highly recommended shop. Parking nearby. Well worth a detour. - The Drifter 14.02.15.
Excellent social history and politics selection as well as reasonably priced topography. Well worth a look when in Bristol. - Norman Davies 15.06.15.
Revisited and now believe if interested in politics, modern history, art, decent topography, this is the best s/h shop in Bristol. - Norman Davies 31.05.18.
Made two visits recently and was not disappointed. The stock continues to be well chosen and displayed, and the prices are good enough to encourage purchases to be made. Recommended. - SteveBrissle 06.12.18.
Dylans Mobile Bookstore
Everywhere
See web link for details
SWANSEA West Glamorgan
tel: 01792 655655 / 07850 759199 web
Open: See web link for details
Dylans Mobile Bookstore will feed your need to read. We travel to festivals, markets & cultural events with our wonderful Words on Wheels experience. We sell books on Art, Poetry, Literature, History & Travel. Specialising in Wales & Dylan Thomas.
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Edinburgh Books
145-147 West Port
EDINBURGH Midlothian EH3 9DP map
tel: 0131 229 4431 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00.
Scottish books, literature, military, music, theology and travel, as well as some antiquarian.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWas West Port Books and has just reopened under new ownership. - TBG 03.10.06.
The owner's wonderful sense of humour livened up a most enjoyable visit. I searched through my interests while my wife's opinion was that the fiction section "was superb." The large holding of Scottish titles was eye-watering while the music and religious parts of the stock were substantial. Noted for a return visit. - Chris Harte 11.06.10.
I was in Edinburgh Books recently and was totally ignored. Access to browsing was denied by man who saw me trying to get to the books but would not budge. No wonder bookshops are closing. - Harry Lawrence 14.03.11.
I entirely endorse Chris Harte on this one. To his list I could add Classical literature, American History, Cricket, and a few more. Only real (comparative) weakness I see is general history. - ECD 25.11.11.
Good for poetry and music. The woman at the counter was jealous of the Van Morrison book I found but I pointed out there were two! - Herne 02.11.13.
Think this shop was cleaner and tidier back in its previous ownership. Why are heavy books up on high shelves not put into order? Many are far from straight. Many moons since the floors were hoovered too. The young lady at the desk was reading her tablet rather than doing some real work. - Chris K 21.11.13.
Agree with CK here, disagree with Mr Harte. Reasonable varied stock but value depends on you taste. Am more interested in books than personality of staff. On second visit to sell, owner made me reach over counter to retrieve books he wasn't buying. Unimpressed. - David S 17.01.15.
My opinion, if any thing, more pronounced! Founds some interesting Scottish items in the small specialist room, but the shelves are becoming doubled-up. Newer and quite old books mixed up together. Did find 2 such items to add to my collection. (Even went to the basement, where many books needed sorting out.) - Chris K 24.02.15.
This is the first time I have visited since the departure of West Port Books, a long-time favourite. I was delighted to discover the premises still in book shop use, with a fine water buffalo presiding over activities! There is plenty of stock, strongest on History and Fiction. - TravellingLibrary 08.08.15.
For my money the biggest and best in Edinburgh. 8 rooms on two floors, vast range, and a whole wall of books for £1. - glenk 04.09.15.
What a let down. Yes very full selection of Scottish and Music titles but unfortunately my topography interests were hidden behind an occupied chair (see above comments) - piles in boxes unsorted. Could be so much better. - Norman D 30.10.16.
Back again. Think I met, for the first time, the Northern Island man who owns this. Bought a good Glasgow architecture p/b item for £6. (One ground floor room is well sorted.) - Chris K 24.06.17.
Elvis Shakespeare
347 Leith Walk
EDINBURGH Midlothian EH6 8SD map
tel: 0131 561 1363 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00, Sunday 12.00 - 5.00.
We are specialist dealers in rare vinyl and quality literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsNot really WAD unless you collect punk, indie and dance vinyl. Idiosyncratic web site in terms of condition grading and shipping costs. Fairly average non-fiction on offer - prices reasonable. Nearly 8000 books - may be not all on display? Must get some interesting stock, from time to time? I didn't peruse the fiction. - Chris K 27.07.10.
My opinion not really changed after a year away. Couldn't find anything special to buy in films/music/books. Does keep the website very up-to- date with new stock. - Chris K 02.08.11.
Fascinatingly arranged shop near junction with Pilrig Street. Books and Music sections of equal weight, literature sorted by geographical location. - glenk 04.09.15.
Focus on the Past Antique Centre
25 Waterloo Street
Clifton
BRISTOL BS8 4BT map
tel: 0117 973 8080
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.30, Sunday 11.00 - 5.00.
From 30th September 2016 I will be moving out of Focus on the Past as I am moving to Cornwall. Another dealer will carry on with the selection of Bristol books. I would like to say thank you to all my lovely regular customers. I have enjoyed meeting you and will be sad to leave. I am now looking for outlets in the Penzance/St Ives area. Best wishes from Margaret Anglim.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAlways worth a good rummage. Some good books can be found and approachable owner. - SteveBrissle 03.03.14.
A good number of reasonably priced books both on the ground floor and down the stairs. Particularly strong on local history. Aisle's quite tight which makes browsing difficult when busy. Recommended- well worth a detour. Just across the road from the books at Rainbow Cafe. Free parking nearby. - The Drifter 19.04.14.
There is a fairly good selection of books in the basement of this antiques centre. However, if they were stacked properly and the view of the shelves not obstructed by clutter then some decent titles can be found. Recommend taking a torch as lighting is poor. - Chris Harte 15.11.14.
buy books here on a regular basis and the main stock is in a section on the ground floor not the basement! Great for local history and 1930s to 50s illustrated if you are into vintage. Rarer books in a cabinet. This is an antique centre not a general book store but books in good condition and not over-priced. Well worth a visit. - Mo H 19.11.14.
Always worth a visit. Small quantity but some good quality books at very reasonable prices. Recommended. - SteveBrissle 22.12.14.
This is an odd one, a crammed antique centre. Upstairs a small selection but I always seem to buy something so worth a look if in Bristol. Downstairs I have twice given up trying to shift boxes, prints and piles of books to get at what may be some decent stuff on the shelves. As the Boxer would say, I need to be fitter to do book removals! - Norman Davies 09.01.15.
Highly recommended selection of collectable and realistically priced books on the ground floor of the Antiques Centre. I visit regularly and have picked up some real bargains over the years. There are further books in the basement. Just across the road are books at the Rainbow Cafe. Well worth a detour. Parking nearby. - The Drifter 14.02.15.
My last two visits have resulted in some good purchases being made at reasonable prices. Lots of local books, mostly in good condition. One of the more interesting established shops in Clifton Village. - SteveBrissle 07.04.16.Very cramped and not much stock re books. Plenty of rugs though. - David 29.09.17.
Sadly now no books upstairs except a few antique centre type ones. Downstairs can now get at the books but they appear the same as were there on the last visit some time ago. No longer worth it for a book buyer or lover. - Norman Davies 31.05.18.
Foster's Bookshop
183 Chiswick High Road
CHISWICK London W4 2DR map
tel: 020 8995 2768 e-mail web
Open: Monday to Saturday 10.30 to 5.30, Sunday 11.00 - 5.00.
Fine books and bindings, children's, illustrated, arts and literature. Pay and display parking at the front of the shop. Only 5 minutes from Turnham Green Station on the District Line.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsSuperb. Absolutely stunning quality stock in little more than a room and small annexe. Manager chatty and with considerable knowledge of the trade. Visit highly recommended. - Chris Harte 27.06.09.
A nice little shop of a kind I have not seen much of in recent years. Nothing of any great interest for me as books published after 1950 do not seem to feature. If antiquarian and old books are your thing this may be worth a visit. Oxfam near Turnham Green Station is close by. - Jon Morgan 09.10.14.
There was once a branch of this shop in Bell Street NW by the side of Marylebone BR Station. It appears closed with a notice stating that it will not be open as an open bookshop any more! - Jon Morgan 06.06.15.
Foyle Books
12 Magazine Street
DERRY Co. Londonderry BT48 6HH map
tel: 028 7137 2530 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 11.00 - 5.00.
Large general stock including Irish & French literature, theology and local history.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsGreat little bookshop in a lovely location. Wide selection of books available. Specialises in Irish history and books about Derry/Donegal. - Bessie 07.10.14.
Without question the best second-hand bookshop in Northern Ireland. There was so much to see and check that the parking meter for the car had to be fed twice. A very knowlegdeable owner who knew his stock and we eventually left with a box full of previously unknown titles. Very well categorised and strong on all aspects of Northern Irish life. I was even allowed to look at unpriced new stock which had some quality books stacked in piles. A return visit is guaranteed. WWAD. - Chris Harte 19.10.16.
A proper second hand bookshop. Good stock, well presented and reasonably priced. - Loyola 13.04.17.
G David Bookseller
16 St. Edward's Passage
CAMBRIDGE Cambridgeshire CB2 3PJ map
tel: 01223 354619
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00.
Secondhand and antiquarian books, particularly literature, illustrated, children's, natural history and fine bindings.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThis shop has for long been my delight. Run by several cheery, helpful fellows with a superb range of remainders covering all possible subjects. And an antiquarian section that almost always meets my needs.A bulging carrier bag departure guaranteed! - Mike Cooper 11.12.08.
Wonderful, proper old bookshop. Great range of books, amazingly bargains known. Antiquarian section is delicious to browse in safe in the knowledge that you won't be able to afford anything, yet just occasionally...bargains known. - PaulP 30.03.12.
All the above may be true but this shop is mostly (occasionally interesting) remainders and not cheap either. Worth patronising as Cambridge has almost no decent second hand bookshops left. - Jon Morgan 06.03.13.
Along a pedestrian alley just to the west of the market place. Opens early at 9 AM 6-days a week. and they hoover the floor regularly. Lots of quality remainders first greet you then you can pop downstairs or go to the large second hand and antiquarian room. Extra stock along the floor sorted so that the spine titles can be easily viewed. Bought one very good local history book; could have bought many more. - Chris K 10.09.14.
Highly recommended. Open early, friendly welcome and plenty of interesting remainders and antiquarian stock to consider. I thought prices were very reasonable. Left with good number of books and days later I phoned for further copies. This proved easy to arrange as well. - Jack T 28.02.15.
Excellent, deceptively large bookshop hidden away from the main streets. As wide a budget range as you could wish for: everything from remaindered titles to seriously antiquarian items. WWAD. - Steven Kelly 26.01.16.
Always incomparable! - The Bookman 16.07.16.
An excellent shop with something for everyone. Well presented stock and knowledgeable, friendly staff. The antiquarian section is extensive but also has a small selection of quality modern firsts at very fair prices. - Loyola 13.04.17.
George Bayntun
Manvers Street
BATH Somerset BA1 1JW map
tel: 01225 466000 fax: 01225 482122 e-mail web
The bookshop specialises in fine leather bindings, mostly English literature, illustrated books and poetry, in first or fine editions. In the bindery, fifteen craftsmen and women bind and restore books from all over the world.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAn interesting shop, where you need to be 'buzzed' in (not sure why), large general stock downstairs and small antiquarian stock upstairs (some the same books as down stairs). - Mark Barrett 11.05.10.
Why the security front door is needed I have no idea. Although the stock is pleasant it is by no means worthy of such protection nor, for that matter, to be patrolled by so many staff. As stated above, the general books in the basement are somewhat duplicated in the first-floor antiquarian section. In fact there were not that many books at all considering the large premises. The occasional gem is on the shelves. However, the shop did not have a welcoming atmosphere and browsers seemed to be tip-toeing around as if in a church. - Chris Harte 19.08.10.
Some real finds here if you persist but prices somewhat on the high side in some cases. - Herne 26.07.12.
George Kelsall's Bookshop
22 Church Street
LITTLEBOROUGH Lancashire OL15 9AA map
tel: 01706 370244 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00, Tuesday 1.00 - 5.00.
A large general stock including art, history, northern topography, industrial history, transport and literature. Books bought. PBFA member.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsLovely little shop, well set out, prices fair, not a massive stock but always good for a few hard-to-find gems if you are lucky. The Wanderer. 15.12.08
Nice general stock in shop. Ask to go out to the house at the back and you will be lost for hours wading through the truly massive number of books. - Chris Harte 14.04.09.
GfB: the Colchester Bookshop
7 Trinity Street
COLCHESTER Essex CO1 1JN map
tel: 01206 502218 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.30.
Very large stock, specialising in academic and out-of-print books on literature, art, philosophy, and history, as well as the sciences and local interest. Our quirky rooms and staircases lead up to the medieval roof of Elizabethan scientist, William Gilbert's Colchester home.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWelcomed with a request to sign an anti-supermarket petition! Varied stock on two floors. Topography strong as well as art and fiction. - Herne.
Just down from the Castle. Seems a little dry and academic on first inspection. The upstairs is new since I last visited but some good stock. The rear is an excellent place. Good Military section and excellent stock of reasonably priced paperbacks. - Jon Morgan 05.02.08.
Not easy to find as entrance on lower ground floor, hence the damp smell. Stock reasonable but nothing really old. Shop assistant (owner being away) had virtually no knowledge of the business. - Chris Harte 21.08.09.
Not as good as the other bookshop in the town but nevertheless well worth a visit. But be warned, they don't take cards and the cash machine is a fair step up the hill. - Nicholas Pendower 16.02.13.
As good as ever, A wide selection of old and new fiction and even in the basement I could get a mobile signal to check prospective purchases on Library Thing. Prices are very reasonable and the £1.00 section which I usually avoid like the plague i bookshops yielded some gems. Did not smell damp to me despite the basement set up. There were a few dehumidifiers going. NB seemed cash only as no evidence of chip pin machine and it is a long walk back to the cashpoint. There are a couple of good-ish charity shops and a recently opened branch of Emmaus which had a good stock of books (History of Radio 4 for £1.00). - jon Morgan 16.02.13.
Revisited after an interval to find still going strong. Good general stock and strong on poetry. Still cash only. - Herne 26.03.13.
Seems diminished in its new home, which is a beautiful structure and ought to be perfect for a secondhand bookshop with differing levels and floors, nooks and crannies, but is oddly empty. Seems disorganised in comparison to the previous location. Bargain basement in the attic (??) with occasional gems. - Jon Morgan 05.11.15.
Out of necessity, this first year has been a case of recovering from our forced move. The stock is diminished because we have weeded out most of the less saleable books. Next year, with a longer-term lease agreed, we will begin shelf-building in earnest to accommodate a lot of new and better stock. It is our aim to turn the building into one the most beautiful bookshops in Britain, for which it is ideally suited. It will take a lot of hard work, though! PS. We do accept credit/debit cards. - Simon Taylor, The Colchester Bookshop 22.12.15.
Re-visited after two years encouraged by the owner's post. Nothing appears to have changed. Not the stock or the arrangement of books on the attic floor. Some evidence of organisation but a slightly haphazard feeling about the place. Intent to shelve can be inferred from wood pile in discreet corners but as the stock is not particularly large and despite the fascinating building, there is a long way before it is the most beautiful bookshop in England.... For me that is probably Booth's in Hay (Even if it is sanitised to within an inch of its life) or may be Daunt in Marylebone. Anyone else got any suggestions? - Jonathan Morgan 13.11.17.
Jonathan's comment is puzzling because, about the same time, a customer who hadn't visited for two years told us how impressed he was with progress. Both rooms on the first floor have been fully shelved and in November we had recently added two large and interesting lots to the stock. However, I will concede that we still have some way to go towards being as beautiful as we want to be! - GfB 15.01.18.
Returned after a long interval to the new premises. A lot to see and plenty to interest. I found some good material in literary fiction and poetry realistically priced. And an excellent coffee shop in an equally historic building next door. - Herne 12.02.18.
Gladstone Books
The Shambles Antique Centre
4 Westgate
LINCOLN Lincolnshire LN1 4AS map
tel: 01636 813601 e-mail web
Open: Thursday - Saturday 11.00 - 4.00, Sunday 12.00 - 4.00.
About 2,500 modestly-priced books on display, with more in stock: Specialisms: history, philosophy, essays, poetry, politics, sociology, various sciences. Also fiction, biographies, natural history, medicine, technology, agriculture, local studies, arts and crafts. Recently moved back from Southwell, Notts – where it was described by an entry in this Guide as: ‘a gem of a bookshop’ and on a UNESCO website as ‘a small, but perfectly-formed bookshop.’
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA recent find in much loved Southwell. If you are visiting this delightful town and like me love books, do not miss this little gem. The owner is charming, well informed and helpful and there are many treasures waiting to be found. Well stocked and well laid out, I could happily have spent an hour or so just browsing. I will definitely be back. If you don't know Southwell, look for Bull Yard (or ask) as it is hidden away off Queen Street. - Liz Bentley 26.07.15.
Incredible well stocked bookshop with an excellent variety of books. Very peaceful and welcoming shop and the books are excellent prices and very good condition etc. Definitely worth a stop to support an independent book shop. - Emily Birch 18.02.16.
Great to find this gem of a bookshop, full of books to make you think, across a range of topics. I appreciate the newsletter with its recommendations which are right up my street. - Peter Cansfield 18.02.16.
A wonderful shop with a very astute and knowledgable owner. An inviting selection of books to browse and enjoy. A particularly good range of philosophy books. Well worth a visit. - Tony Walker 18.02.16.
1. Quiet and comfortable atmosphere where you can browse without interruption. 2. A well selected and wide range of books. But the added pleasure is that the book seller really knows his stock and may introduce items you might otherwise have missed. - Sally Godwin-Austen 27.02.16.
Serendipity brought me here as I fondly remember Prof. Mepham's shop in Lincoln. Seek out Bull Yard and browse, you will be well rewarded. - Colin G. Thornton 04.03.16.
This is a literary oasis located in a quiet lane close to the Minster. It is small but well organised with a catholic selection of books with something to please almost everyone! The owner is knowledgeable and helpful but also willing to leave browsers alone. - Peter Donaldson 02.04.16.
Small shop but every space well filled and no filler. Organised and a pleasure to browse. Excellent stock, mostly non-fiction. Friendly chap running it who will leave you alone or chat depending on your preference. Great prices. WAD. - Ian Ellis 22.07.17.
Moved in present location in January. - TBG 15.02.18.
Glaisnock Book Cafe
20 South Main Street
WIGTOWN Dumfries and Galloway DG8 9EH map
tel: 01988 402249 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 9.00 - 5.00.
Thousands of books displayed in our book cave room. Modern fiction and non-fiction at affordable prices. Our book cave is located at the rear of our book themed cafe
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsFairly humdrum selection of 'charity shop' type books - so not really on a par with the other Wigtown shops. However the prices are fine - if you are on the lookout for a coffee table book or an airport-type novel then it will probably be here. - Steven Kelly 16.10.13.
The beating heart of Wigtown. The books are a clean and bright selection of largely modern paperback fiction, 50p for a paperback, £1 for a hardback. You can get your holiday novels here, but you don't come to Glaisnock for the books, you come for a warm and friendly welcome, a chat over a superb 'Full Scottish' breakfast and excellent coffee - and to earwig on the community at its ease. My paperback novel came free, courtesy of Glaisnock's very own "Happy Cafe Day". I'm sure a stay in their B&B would be a pleasant one. - TravellingLibrary 27.06.15.Very nice, friendly cafe. The books, in one room at the back and a few other shelves, are pretty much charity shop fare. But you do get a free copy with your cafe order. - Mark V 08.08.15.
Harrison-Hiett at Toad Hall
Stone Lane
WIMBORNE Dorset BH21 1HB map
tel: 01202 880487 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 10.00 - 4.00.
A wide range of sound books in a book room. Hb & Pb. Lots of maps and prints. A "Shabby Chic" antique centre.
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Hawkridge Books
Apartment 1
West Royd 119 Manchester Road
SHEFFIELD South Yorkshire S10 5DN map
tel: 0114 268 9393 e-mail web
Open: 7 days10.00 - 5.00 by appointment only.
Quality stock, specialising in ornithology and natural history but with a very wide range of subjects. About 7100 books on display. Private premises but visitors very welcome to phone for an appointment.
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Henry Sotheran Ltd
2 Sackville Street
PICCADILLY London W1S 3DP map
tel: 020 7439 6151 fax: 0207 434 2019 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 6.00, Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
Fine and rare books and prints. Specialist departments, modern first editions, children's, architecture, travel and exploration, natural history, private press, literature, sport and Churchill. Established in 1761 in York we believe we are the oldest antiquarian book business in the world.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThis shop gets my back up. Take a 50p book: get it expensively rebound: then flog it to unsuspecting tourists for a small fortune. When I pointed this out, got asked to leave the premises. - Chris Harte 14.04.09.
Lovely surroundings but prices to match. Disappointed there were very few highlights in modern firsts section. - Loyola 24.04.10.
Horning Post Office and Shop
39 Lower Street
Horning
NORWICH Norfolk NR12 8AA map
tel: 01692 630225 e-mail
Open: Monday - Friday 8.30 - 5.30, Saturday 9.00 - 12.30.
Norfolk/Suffolk local interest; Arthur Ransome novels, collectable and first editions; history, literature. Also greetings cards, jigsaws, stationery.
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Island Books
White House
Storrington Road
THAKEHAM West Sussex RH20 3EQ map
tel: 01798 812 223 e-mail web
Open: By Appointment.
Large stock of fine, rare and academic titles. Binding and restoration. Showroom open by appointment.
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Jabberwock Books
14-16 St. Lawrence Street
HORNCASTLE Lincolnshire LN9 5BJ map
tel: 01507 522112 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.30.
Stock covers most areas, with substantial sections of literature, poetry, art, travel and history. Books range from the rare and antiquarian to the newly-published (the latter usually for sale in fine condition at half their new price or less). Established 20 years and expanded in 2006. Occupies two adjoining buildings, steeped in Horncastle's past. (History shelves backed by Roman Wall).
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA large bookshop. Much of the stock is nearly new, not particularly good on fiction, certainly not vintage fiction, not a bad entertainment section. Compared to the other Horncastle shops, slightly pricey. - The Jumping Frog 02.09.10.
Jeff Towns
Dylans Bookstore (The Newton Bookroom)
5 Summerland Lane Newton
SWANSEA West Glamorgan SA3 4UJ map
tel: 01792 655255 / 07850 759199 e-mail web
Open: By appointment only
We sell books on Art, Poetry, Literature, History & Travel. Specialising in Wales & Dylan Thomas.
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John Marrin Rare Books
Old Forge
Ford Village
BERWICK-UPON-TWEED Northumberland TD15 2QA map
tel: 01890 820521 e-mail web
Open: By Appointment.
Antiquarian, rare, and second-hand books, situated in the Horseshoe Forge. Specialising in books on the history and literature of the Great War 1914 - 1918, gardening and fishing, books relating to the history of the Borders, and many other subjects from needlework to walking.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsIt's not open all the time, but has always been open when Ive called in on holiday in Northumberland - specialises in military history - but has other stock as well. Small, but friendly. - Gareth 15.08.15.
Keel Row Books
11 Fenwick Terrace
Preston Road
NORTH SHIELDS Tyne and Wear NE29 0LU map
tel: 0191 296 0664 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Rare & second-hand books, maps, ephemera & photographs bought & sold. Established 1981. Tyneside's longest running rare & secondhand bookshop. Member of the ABA, ILAB and PBFA. Sprawling early Victorian house now crammed with 40,000 books on every conceivable subject. Located in historic North Shields, close to the mouth of the River Tyne. A couple of minutes drive from the attractions of the coast.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsI counted six rooms but they also use the hallways and parts of the stairs, but no matter what the room count is the shop is big, relatively easy to park at, friendly (being more than happy to pull books from the window display for me to look at) and well worth the visit. The upstairs hall was being used for piles of books and boxes of comics and magazines when I was there but the shop is tidy and well laid out. - Jeremy Briggs.
Taken over by a new owner but the standard of books is still as good as always. Never leave Newcastle without a visit. - Chris Harte 14.04.09.
Good range of stock, very helpful staff. - Paul Simpson 28.07.09.
They now have a really splendid selection of Australian town and regional histories some of which are difficult to get even in Australia. - Chris Harte 12.09.09.
Like other big book shops in area (Alnwick & Carlisle) prices are generally too high, this one is not easy to get to or park by, there are some quality books here but if only there were the odd bargain it would be worth a visit. - PaulP 02.08.11.
The owner is very unpleasant indeed and I will not be recommending him to anyone and shall tell people of his impoliteness. - E 19.04.12.
The owner is very pleasant indeed and I will be recommending him to anyone and will always tell people of his politeness. He does have a low tolerance for pillocks, mind. - Steve Liddle 23.04.13.
Still the best s/h bookshop between Alnwick and York, I think. Went there on a fairly sunny PM. Plenty of stock to browse but some areas are too dark. Needs better lighting installed in the rooms with no windows. Bought 3 good books though. - Chris K 16.10.13.
Excellemt bookshop well worth a visit. Fair/reasonable prices. - Dickl 05.11.15.
Enjoyed a recent impromptu visit here with friends. Proprietor seemed pleasant & we were all pleased to find a decent selection of cheap but quality used stock & in my preferred area of science fiction. Made several purchases & would gladly visit to browse again. - Darania45 24.09.16.
What a great shop. Broad range of stock, most subjects covered. The place has real character with helpful staff. The general readers stock is fairly priced and the collectible books don't seem unreasonable. - Andy 20.11.17.
Completely transformed from the 1990s era shop that I still fondly remember. No tottering piles of paperbacks threatening to engulf you last you foolishly try to extract one to look at. Keel Row is a clean, tidy and welcoming establishment with room after room of neatly stacked, well organised titles, most if not all in very good condition. Prices are very reasonable and there are even bargains to be had if one looks hard enough. Parking is a problem, however, there is a free car park about five minutes walk away towards the town centre. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. - Graeme Rendall 11.11.18.
Ken Spelman Books Ltd
70 Micklegate
YORK North Yorkshire YO1 6LF map
tel: 01904 624414 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.30.
Books on the fine arts, architecture, garden design, literature, history, science & technology, philosophy & very many other areas. In addition to our rare and antiquarian books, we also have a rapidly changing stock of over 40,000 scholarly and interesting books on all subjects. We also hold regular art exhibitions and have a permanent gallery space.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsFreezing day and a coal fire burning downstairs, a browser's paradise! - Andy Overton.
The best bookshop I?ve visited in York ? excellent stock, accurately priced - Geoff Hatherick 22.07.08.
Generally good stock (although not as good as several years ago). Prices ok. If you want to sell books forget it - you are likely to get a supercilious reaction 'oh we're not interested' even when you have rung before and been told they will buy! - John Williamson 04.03.09.
A significantly higher quality of stock than when I visited a few years ago, and the arrival of new material has certainly increased with lots to look at. Prices are very competitive, and checking up on a few items on-line on my return home I found them to be consistently lower than for poorer copies listed elsewhere. The chatty staff were very helpful - this shop deserves to survive and I look forward to my next trip up Micklegate. - Harry Peterson 30.09.10.
Agree last comment much improved stock and (importantly) more sensible prices than a few years back. Definitely the best shop in York now with good proprietor and some fine biographies and politics books for me. - Norman Davies 09.02.11.
Visited in the spring of 2012 and this is a lovely book shop with clean and well organised stock, however, I could not find a single military/WWII/Royal Navy book to purchase so left empty-handed. Shame as pricing was reasonable. - Laurence Batchelor 08.01.14.
Not been since I lived in York in 1997-98. Some of the stock still the same from then, but pleased to find some affordable rarities, even a signed first edition for a fiver and very helpful staff. - Anthony 10.03.14.
Went back today, warm welcome and three good purchases. Flying visit of 10 minutes but will return again soon. - Anthony 05.02.15.
Excellent shop, physically interesting with very good stock at reasonable prices. Had quite a lot of remainders particularly on Art which are very easy to buy and which you might not see elsewhere. - popsikov 02.04.15.
Owned for many years by Messrs. Fothergill and Miller, the latter having now retired. The interesting rack of cheap books outside retired with him, which is a shame. Within, all is unchanged for the most part. That is to say, a very good range of stock in history, modern literature and philosophy, plus some remaindered stock at the front. Idiosyncratic features, such as the open fire in the Winter, and the incomparable Suzi at all seasons, are unchanged too. Something of a price revolution recently (compare Minster Gates), with a not-dissimilar effect in certain parts of the shop. - The Bookman 16.07.16.
Hadn't been here for years but shop still very good. Good selection and prices reasonable. - David - 25.05.17.
Back there after a while. Managed to buy 3 items - cost me £31.49. - Chris K 19.04.18.
Knightcross Books
48 Halifax Place
Lacemarket
NOTTINGHAM Nottinghamshire NG1 1QN map
tel: 07840 528206 e-mail
Open: 7 days 9.00 - 9.00.
Antiquarian, fine bindings, literature, topography, travel. I have about 1,000 items in stock. I am familiar with every Item and can respond to email or phone enquiries at once. Prices range from about £15 to £4,000.
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Lee Furneaux
Tavistock Pannier Market
TAVISTOCK Devon PL19 0AU map
tel: 01822 853243 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 8.30 - 4.00
Their eclectic bookshop islocated in the far corner at the west end of the market. Subjects of special interest include Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley, military history, maritime, art, literature and children's books
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThey always have interesting and well-priced titles in stock. - Tim Hall 23.12.11.
This might just be a stall in a high quality market but, my goodness, what a super selection of hard to obtain titles. A knowledgable and friendly owner saw her busy during both of my visits. Rumour had it that the best of a recently purchased collection will soon see the light of day. - Chris Harte 20.03.12.
I'm always pleased to visit when in Tavistock. A good selection of titles with many 'wants' purchased this time. Prices are very reasonable and the owner's knowledge of books excellent. - Chris Harte 12.10.17.
Leigh Gallery Books
137 Leigh Road
LEIGH-ON-SEA Essex SS9 1JQ map
tel: 01702 715477
Open: Thursday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Large general stock and particularly art, illustrated, literature and local topography. Also maps and prints.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThe biggest and best of several secondhand shops in Leigh. Antiquarian and secondhand books, well-displayed and organised with quality books at reasonable prices. Recommended to browsers. - Bridget the Browser.
This is the sort of bookshop I love. Excellent stock with loads of 19th century items. Lots of quality mid-wars fiction and some stunning rarities in between other stock. Owner knew his subject and answered my queries with ease. Visit highly recommended. - Chris Harte 29.06.09.
This looks promising from outside and occupies a significant area ie two shops. tha said the stock is extensive although somewhat disappointing. Lots of dead stock and gaps on the shelves and little of real interest although the poster collection (Mainly French) was good.. Owner was helpful and knowledgeable but since Drif is being spoken of again, NWAD - JM 24.07.12.
Matters have obviously improved since JM's visit six years ago: this is an excellent shop, strong in all categories with plentiful stock and reasonable prices. The proprietor is extremely friendly and helpful (not something I've found I can rely upon in every secondhand bookshop. In my view, WAD! - Laurence Purcell 13.02.19.
Leominster Books
Book Room
The Secondhand Warehouse and Antiques Centre New Street
LEOMINSTER Herefordshire HR6 8DR map
tel: 01568 614114 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.30.
On the first floor of this large Antiques Centre. A good selection of secondhand and antiquarian books on all subjects. New stock added regularly.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsQuite a good selection on the first floor. All in category order with a number of shelves of old children's books. - Chris Harte 29.10.12.
Well organised, well lit and stocked with an interesting mix of old and modern books at reasonable prices, even some sheet music. Handy for the car park and free coffee too. One not to miss. - Laura 29.10.12.
Very small stock. About half a dozen bookcases. - Mark 10.11.12.
The customer above must have missed the book room and only visited one of the antique dealers on the ground floor of the Centre who carries a small stock of books. Leominster Books is on the first floor (up the main staircase by the cash desk) and has a substantial stock of several thousand books in considerably more than half a dozen bookcases! - Simon, Leominster Books 14.11.12.
Yes, if you go straight upstairs you will find the real books - excellent selection, decent prices. WWAD. - Norman Davies 24.08.13.
A fairly large unit in a bright and interesting antiques centre. The stock is well presented and in good condition, and there is a comparatively wide selection of well-chosen books at quite reasonable prices. However, there is no facility for those who like to rummage in interesting and dusty corners. - Nicholas Pendower 12.04.14.
Asked for Leominster Books at the main desk, only to be met with puzzlement. There is a unit of books upstairs, but it is fairly small in size and general in character. - TravellingLibrary 18.05.18.
Lloyds of Kew Bookshop
9 Mortlake Terrace
Kew
RICHMOND Surrey TW9 3DT map
tel: 020 8948 2556 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00
Everything from general second hand stock to rare and collectable and antiquarian. Literature, classics, London, history, biography and children's plus many more categories. Come and browse, have a coffee and we are happy to help.
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Loe Books
Landreyne Manor
Coads Green
LAUNCESTON Cornwall PL15 7LZ map
tel: 44156 678 2528 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 9.00 - 5.00 by appointment.
Natural History, general antiquarian, specialising in the New Naturalist Series. Stock is held in a converted barn and several rooms, well organised!
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Mair Wilkes Books
3 St Mary's Lane
NEWPORT-ON-TAY Fife DD6 8AH map
tel: 01382 542260 e-mail
Open: Open: Tuesday - Friday 10.00 - 12.30 & 2.00 - 4.30, Saturday 10.00 - 4.30.
20,000 books across all subjects but especially, the history of ideas, philosophy and medicine. Scottish literature and topography. A selection of our stock can be found at The Scottish Antique and Arts Centre, Abernyte.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsEasily missed on a side-street, a very large and eminently browsable stock in the upper floor of a large detached house. Somewhat reminiscent of Bookcase in Carlisle albeit on a much smaller scale. Prices reasonable for the most part. - Steven Kelly 02.10.14.
Marlborough Rare Books Ltd
1 Clement's Lane
THE CITY London EC4N 7HB map
tel: 020 7493 6993 web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 5.30.
Antiquarian, English literature, illustrated and bindings.
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McConnell Fine Books
The Golden Hind
85 Beach Street
DEAL Kent CT14 6JB map
tel: 01304 375086 web
Open: Appointment necessary
Secondhand and antiquarian books including literature, history and books about Kent.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsIt is a long time since I have been so angry after visting a bookshop. I found the owner's attitude towards myself and other customers to be beyond the pale. His main aim is to sell "fine bindings" and little else. Stock small and unexamined as in my two minutes in the shop I was looked upon as scum and totally unwanted. Visit only if you want to be insulted. - Chris Harte 27.06.09.
I am all for constructive opinion and have used your guide in the past. However, this review completely blurs the distinction between 'fair comment' and malicious comment. It is not at all constructive or informative and appears to be nothing more than a personal attack on the shop's proprietor. "I was looked upon as scum" "Visit only if you want to be insulted" ? And all of this formulated in a "two minute" visit. I am suprised that a publication that sets out to actively encourage book buyers to visit 'real' as opposed to 'virtual' bookshops has allowed such a comment to be posted. - Steve Baxter. 11.08.09.
What utter nonsense your initial reviewer has written! I regularly visit the Golden Hind and have always found Nick McConnell enthusiastic, knowledgeable and utterly charming. Mr. Harte must be an idiot not to spot that this is quite obviously a shop that specialises in fine bindings and in some very good local history, and, if he had bothered to find out, would have discovered that it contains one of the finest selections of this type of book in the world, let alone in East Kent. That a reviewer can so utterly misunderstand a business and be allowed to do so much potential damage to a seller that has an international clientele and reputation is disgraceful, and he should ensure that he gets his facts right before going into print. - Nicholas Pendower 18.08.09.
I was sorry to see the first review. It's true that the Golden Hind is not the charming little local bookshop it was in Michael Hoskins' day but Nick McConnell has at least kept it open. Important to remember that he is an antiquarian dealer not a second hand bookseller then you wont be disappointed. Stock is high quality and Nick is a very pleasant fellow who has never been rude to a customer while I was in the shop! I always visit when in the area and recommend it, depending on your interest. - Anthony Davis 13.10.09.
Revisited after reading what the owner's friends (see above) thought of my initial comments. My opinion has not changed one iota. - Chris Harte 13.01.11.
I agree with those who find the owner of McConnell's bookshop in Deal offhand and unhelpful. It wasn't entirely unreasonable to ask if he carried local marine subjects. It would be nice if the reviewers avoided so much personal sniping. - Lee 25.01.11.
Now only open by appointment. - TBG 23.10.13.
McNaughtan's Bookshop
3a - 4a Haddington Place
EDINBURGH Midlothian EH7 4AE map
tel: 0131 556 5897 web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 11.00 - 5.00
We have a large general second-hand and antiquarian stock including books on
the fine arts, architecture, children's books, literature, history, music,
travel, topography, natural history, cookery and gardening. Within the shop
is a small gallery space with a rolling programme of exhibitions of the work
of contemporary artists. The exhibition space can be rented and you are
referred to our website for terms and conditions.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThis bookshop is Edinburgh at its best. The shelves are groaning with quality and I was amazed at the runs which were being offered for sale. I spent just over two hours here when, in all honesty, it should have been longer. The prices were very fair and I had no hesitation in parting with quite a lot of money in exchange for some very collectable titles. Visit highly recommended. - Chris Harte 11.06.10.
Specialities include Scottish, literature, history and visual arts. Has changed since my last visit in that there's now a small gallery area with paintings by the owner Elizabeth Strong on display. Tantalisingly a lot of white plastic bags at the foot of the shelves: new stock waiting to be processed. Staffed by a young American chap. (I spent £3.50) - Chris K 27.07.10.
Down some steep steps into an extensive basement premises. Probably one of the 2 best rare and second-hand bookshops in Edinburgh. (Just opposite a good s-h vinyl/cd/dvd seller in Elm Row.) Found 2 good cheap, local history p/backs and an unusual French art history title. WAD. - Chris K 02.08.11.
The moment you walk in that lovely smell of a quality bookshop, a proper bookshop, interesting books, bargains known, friendly staff, Edinburgh's finest in my view. - PaulP 14.08.13.
Missed it on my first walk past! Glad I found it because it is full of interesting volumes. And a great music shop just over the road. - Herne 02.11.13.
I have been visiting this place for the past forty years and it is still by far the best secondhand / antiquarian bookshop in Edinburgh. Great art section with an impressive collection of old exhibition catalogues. Large children's section and great Scottish section. A place of pilgrimage for all serious book collectors. - Oor Wullie 26.07.14.
All the other comments are still quite right. But I must add some praise for those who work there: civilised, knowledgeable, friendly, they're as much Edinburgh at it's best as are the shop and its stock. - James Mackay 22.11.14.
One of my 2 favorite Edinburgh bookshops. A wide range of prices from a few pounds up to many hundreds, but all excellent quality. It seems this shop only sells the best of the best an honest prices based upon condition and rarity. - Richard 24.04.15.
Spoke to the nice lady assistant to learn that the shop owner Elizabeth Strong is retiring at the end of the month. It's being taken over by a Blackwell's Oxford Bookshop guy and his partner.The lady I spoke to was being made redundant and finished that day ... All the available stock now out for sale - did manage to find a very good copy of 'London's Railways From The Air'. [Have vivid memories about local stations and steam loco sheds I knew very well.] - Chris K 10.07.15
I have visited this shop many, many times over the years and have always considered it one of Edinburgh's great treats. The Architecture section is a little smaller now that the Gallery has taken much of its space, but is still an excellent offering and largely modestly priced. I wish Elizabeth well in her retirement with her paints and easel. There will be an exhibition of her work at the shop soon. As for Macnaughtans, I expect the old-established name will stay but anticipate a change of ethos and atmosphere in the near future. - TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
Very pleased to catch the old shop in its final week. 5 good rooms, spent hours and found a bagful for less than £20. best wishes for the retirement; fingers crossed for the new management. - glenk 04.09.15.
New owners Derek Walker and Anna Fomicheva, formerly of Blackwells in Oxford. Met DW on my first return. Had a good look round and could only find a £2 item to purchase. Some of the shelves now need the books kept better sorted. There are gaps since my last visit though 37 new boxes of art etc. waiting to be added. - Chris K 23.02.16.
Books now well sorted, nicely presented and well shelved. A cross between antiquarian and general s/h, this is a must for the general collector (ie me). Beware it is difficult to find - look down into the basement off the main road pavement! - Norman D 30.10.16.
After 5pm on 23rd December the shop will close for the holiday period and necessary restoration works on our ceiling. We will re-open on 23rd January at 11am with a new exhibition in the gallery. - Chris K 15.01.18.
Next Chapter Books
7 Rustlings Road
SHEFFIELD South Yorkshire S11 7AA map
tel: 0114 3270341 e-mail
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.30.
A compact range of good-quality books with an emphasis on art, photography and design, philosophy, poetry, film, travel and topography, history and fiction, including Modern First Editions.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsSmall and a bit book fairy for my taste, more of interest to the collector than the reader. - Jake Kirkwood 22.03.13.Just across the Ecclesall Road from "Books On The Park" at the start of Rustlings Rd. A smaller shop which has very good stock. Bought 2 excellent books - you can haggle a bit with the owner. - Chris K 01.04.14.
Odd Things Shop & Caff
59 Oakenshaw Lane
Walton
WAKEFIELD West Yorkshire WF2 6NJ map
tel: 01924 255666 e-mail web
Open: Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays 10.00 - 5.00.
Secondhand and contemporary. Recommended poetry selection plus fiction, literature,art, collectors penguin, crime, thrillers, children's, maps. Something for everyone. All profit to The Yorkshire Live Music Project C.I.C.
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Once Read
4 High Street
CREDITON Devon EX17 3AE map
tel: 01363 773365 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Out of print English Literature including a wide range of poetry. Specialist subjects such as soil science, Indian spiritualism and theology. Also a good range of biographies, military, British/European, cultural and social history. We have been open since July 1st 2011 and have had great support from the local community. We offer books at affordable prices. We are happy to take any enquiries or book requests.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsI was impressed with the range of books and reasonable prices. Worth a detour. - Norman Davies 22.09.11.
Excellent and timely service and reasonable prices. You can order and if you don't want you don't have to take. Superb customer service. Highly recommended. - Ray 31.10.11.
Unfortunately did not live up expectations. Very poor. - Bookman 07.11.11.
Realy very impressed with the range of books particularly given the size of the premises. Very friendly service and always with a smile. Good addition to Crediton High Street. - AnnieB 30.03.12.
I endorse the other comments - very good range of books despite the shop being relatively small. Well worth a visit. - Nick 12.12.14.
I heartily second the commentators who have remarked upon the merits of this shop and its owner. I was particularly struck by the small, but excellent and reasonably priced selection of books in and on the Latin language. - Geoffrey Warner 15.09.17.
An enjoyable visit to this job. Pleasant owner who knows if he stocks your requests. Large selection of titles and you may not expect to find this in such a modest space. Well worth the visit and prices very reasonable. - Albert Lee 12.02.18.
Over-Sands Books
The Old Waiting Room
The Station
GRANGE-OVER-SANDS Cumbria LA11 6EH map
tel: 015395 36969
Open: Unknown
Literature, railways and topography.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA word of warning; PHONE FROM THE CAR PARK BEFORE YOU PAY YOUR PARKING FEE, as the opening hours appear to be a work of fiction. Driff said you can have any opening hours you like as long as you stick to them. Will not return. - Corso 22.03.14.
Was shut on a Wednesday afternoon - looked so boarded up I'm not sure whether it is still open for business. Lovely location, pity about not sticking to the published hours, or at least leaving a note explaining why. Not sure I'll be enticed back for a second go. - Graeme Rendall 10.07.15.
On the basis of Graeme's review I rang the shop today to see if it was still trading. The owner threatened me with legal action for having the wrong (originally supplied by him) opening times displayed. I've removed these from his FREE entry and the advice remains the same - phone before travelling. TBG 10.07.15.
The person responsible for compiling this guide had not been in touch with me for approx. 8 years or more to check on my opening times, and until today, tenth of July, they were listing incorrect opening times. When I complained that they should be more diligent when compiling the guide the compiler laid the blame squarely at my door for not getting in touch with them. I had no idea until a year or so ago of the existence of the guide online, and was so irritated by the negative comment of a prospective customer, given the incorrect hours published by inprint, that I decided to have nothing more to do with the guide due to their unprofessionalism. My position remains unchanged. - S. Tyson (owner) 10.07.15.
Mr Tyson's strange assumption that Mike, who runs the TheBookGuide, must regularly check 100s of book shops' opening hours should remind us that as this is an interactive internet guide it's up to the book shop owners and TheBookGuide's readers and contributors to keep the guide up to date with opening times, changes of location, closures, new shops, etc. Also, I think that negative comments sent to the Guide which are not constructive are destructive, we want second hand book shops to flourish not the opposite. To help us choose which shops to visit comments on the shop's atmosphere, its accessibility, the quality and variety of the stock, and the kind of prices charged are always really helpful and the main strength of this guide, useful for the visitor and hopefully useful for the bookshop owner too. - P Paxton 13.07.15.
Mike, what fantastic cheek. You provide free publicity and listing and Mr Tyson (Mike ???) blames you. He has known about the guide for a year and yet not updated the opening times which would be to his benefit. His comment, which you take the trouble to publish shows immense Chutzpah. - Jon Morgan 13.07.15.
Note: The classic definition of "Chutzpah" is that given by Leo Rosten: "that quality enshrined in a man who, having killed his mother and father, throws himself on the mercy of the court because he is an orphan." - TBG 15.07.15.
Can we now lift the tone of this discussion please? I do not know any of you and personally discern no bravery in leaving anonymous comments that are meant to be clever or humorous but could be seen to border on insult (surely this is trolling, and has nothing to do with the business of selling or collecting books?). I have many satisfied customers, and my shop is well thought off. While these forums may purport to encourage businesses they can also do a lot of damage to individuals. I have read the comments about Pier Books and Past and Present, and they are mainly negative. I know both these individuals and they are as both very nice people who work hard at what they do. My details are available on the websites I sell on, Abe, etc, which seems the sensible thing to do given my stock is listed there. If Id wanted them listing here I would have provided them. Since the recent comments about my business went up I have received an anonymous email insulting me (I have kept the email). I do appreciate that collectors and sellers may have different priorities, but as I have tried to stress - my details are available in the places where I wish them to be seen and anyone visiting my shop will always get a warm welcome. Thank you - S. Tyson (owner) 14.07.15.
I don't believe it as Victor would say, he gets free advertising. I am very happy to be listed on INPRINT (TheBookGuide) myself, with my shop Corfe Books in Addlestone Surrey. Would never bite the hand that feeds us. What has happened to the old ways of working together, we are all specialists in our fields, we should stick together and take any constructive feedback. Though I did get annoyed once when a fellow bookdealer posted flyers for his shop on my window. That was a few years ago and they are no longer trading. And another trader in Woking claimed he was the last dealer in Surrey with the closure of 2 Guildford shops. - Mark Hayhoe (Corfe Books) 14.07.15.
I happened across this charming bookshop in August when I was brassic. I will return to buy a book when I have money. I find the petty comments about the shop regrettable as it is surely a vocation of the owner which we should be grateful for. - Stephen Moore 20.11.17.
Oxfam
20 Burleigh Street
CAMBRIDGE Cambridgeshire CB1 1DG map
web
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsGood general stock on the first floor of a normal Oxfam shop. probably more books than the dedicated Oxfam Bookshop in Sidney Street. I rarely visit without coming away with some gem or other. lots of other charity shops in this street too. - NK 09.09.13.
Going rapidly downhill with large spaces appearing on the bookshelves. What used to be a quality selection appears not to be being refreshed much if at all. The other charity shops in the street are also headed the same way as far as books are concerned. - Jon Morgan 06.08.14.
Oxfam Books & Music
74 Hertford Street
COVENTRY West Midlands CV1 1LB map
tel: 02476 229684 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 9.00 - 5.00.
Trading for over 30 years, we have a wide selection of academic textbooks, literature, poetry, and plays, alongside fiction, crime, travel and children's books. We have one of the largest sci-fi departments in the country, stocking hundreds of comics (many rare and out of print). We also have many film & music reference books and biographies.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsNot sure why you're missing this one Mike as its been there decades. Heavy on Sci-fi and comics and unsurprisingly paperback fiction. Worth checking every now and then. - Laurence Batchelor 28.07.14.
A good example of a well-stocked charity bookshop with particular strengths in classic fiction and history as well as a useful CD rarities selection. - Herne 21.11.18.
Oxfam Books and Music
5 Station Parade
BEACONSFIELD Buckinghamshire HP9 2PB map
tel: 01494 730005 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.30.
Ever-changing selection of current titles, classic literature, CDs, vinyl records,
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsVery Good quality stock but a trifle expensive fairly large shop - John Bacon 23.10.17.
As John Bacon says, very good quality stock, much of it appears new and un-read... Remainders perhaps or unwanted presents donated by the extremely affluent residents of Beaconsfield? Prices okay for the standard Oxfam charity shop stock, but hardbacks and history (Good general and local stock) were quite steep. Oddly, no crime section! There are several other charity shops in town, some with quite good ranges of books. The town has changed massively since the mid seventies when I was a boy living there - looks quite tatty now! - Jon Morgan 30.10.17.
Oxfam Bookshop
220 High Street
GUILDFORD Surrey GU1 3JD map
tel: 01483 504257 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.30, Sunday 12.00 - 4.00.
We sell a wide range of subjects including fiction, literature, history, academic subjects, travel & languages, leisure etc. Out of print & collectable books. We also have a stamp section and a large music section selling c.d.s, vinyl, sheet music and books on music.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA very good Oxfam shop with largish history and literature sections. - Sputnikchaser 03.03.12.
Usual Oxfam fare, very helpful staff if a little pricey. - Steve Newman 14.08.12.
Paul Haynes Rare Books
Rock House
Newport Street
HAY-ON-WYE Powys HR3 5BG map
tel: 07881 922916 e-mail web
Open: By Appointment
A small stock of quality antiquarian and rare books. A member of the ABA and ILAB, exhibiting regularly at Book Fairs internationally.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsBroad range of worthy antiquarian items as to be expected, owner a bit of a curmudgeon. - Isidore Ducasse 22.11.14.
Pen'rallt Gallery Bookshop
Pen'rallt Street
MACHYNLLETH Powys SY20 map
tel: 01654 700559 e-mail
Open: Monday - Wednesday & Friday 10.00 - 6.00, Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
Mostly non-fiction, 25% new, specialising in photography, with the arts, environment, topography, natural history, illustrated and children's books. We order new books and search for used for customers. We also exhibit photography and book illustration work. We organise book related events for each first Thursday of the month. We do not sell on the internet.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsPleasant visit, nice selection of quality titles - no scruffy pot-boilers in here! With the various other book attractions in the town, worth a visit. - Anthony 14.08.13.
Pendleburys Bookshop
Garreg Fawr
Porthyrhyd
LLANWRDA SA19 8NY map
tel: 01558 650 840 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00 .
Booksellers for many decades with a large general stock & specialisms of 20,000 theology, 3,500 botanical & gardening books. Outside advertised hours please telephone before visiting. A remote hillside bookshop housed in converted barns in the foothills of the Cambrians within a three acre garden project.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA journey into the middle of nowhere was rewarded by a friendly greeting, hot coffee and lots of chatter. This really is an oasis in the wilderness and the tens of thousands of titles on offer took some hours to browse. The theological stock took the whole of one massive converted barn. Other subjects, with a large gardening section, were a joy to behold. Only a fraction of the books are on the internet at the moment. There are many scarce titles on offer, particularly on field sports and rural pursuits. WWAD. - Chris Harte 05.03.13.
Peter Ellis
18 Cecil Court
CHARING CROSS London WC2N 4HE map
tel: 020 7836 8880 web
Open: Monday - Friday 10.30 - 7.00, Saturday 10.30 - 5.30.
Modern firsts, literature, illustrated, history. ABA member.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsExcellent selection of modern firsts but prices over the top as seems common in Cecil Court. £75 for Smiley's People? - Loyola 24.04.10.
Loyola seems to be under a double misapprehension: books in London are in fact cheaper than elsewhere in the country (see his comments on Any Amount of Books); it is not possible to maintain an 'excellent selection' by underselling your stock. ellisbooks 17.03.11.
Visited today - excellent stock in fine condition with fair (and inviting) prices for the quality - this seller knows the true definition of "fine". - Sam Glen 15.05.13.
Picaresque Books & Galerie Fantoosh
55 High Street
DINGWALL Ross-shire IV15 9HL map
tel: 01349 863140 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
We have now moved to much larger premises allowing us to stock a range of older and rarer books as well as some locally published New books.
These are then complimented by a range of maps as well as local crafts etc.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA bright,spacious shop,with a range of stock to suit all pockets.Friendly owner. - Allan Campbell 26.01.15.
The owner was very pleasant and knew his stuff - which was good, as we were from Australia. A very pleasant browse amongst old books. We even bought a few. - Exnavybloke 20.02.15.
Pickering & Chatto
1 Clement's Lane
THE CITY London EC4N 7HB map
tel: 020 7493 6993
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 5.30.
Economics, literature, science & medicine.
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Prim's Bookshop
43 Main Street
KINSALE Co. Cork
tel: (0)86 194 9842 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 11.00 - 5.00, Sunday 12.30 - 5.00 (January & February - ring first).
Wide range of interesting books including rare books and first editions, modern first editions, classic literature, poetry, Irish interest and general stock.
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R A Gekoski
Old Chapel House
Lybuarn Road
HAMPTWORTH Wiltshire SP5 2DR map
tel: 07831 875202 e-mail web
Open: By appointment only
One of the world's leading specialist dealers in modern English, Irish and American Literature, including first editions, association copies, manuscripts and archives, and artworks with literary associations.
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R and R Books
Nelson Street
STROUD Gloucestershire GL5 2HL map
tel: 01453 755788 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.30.
Wide range of secondhand books, magazines, comics, and ephemera. Includes mind, body & spirit, esoteric, art & craft, literature, poetry & plays. Good selection of paperback fiction including classics - modern & 19th century, crime/detective, science fiction, fantasy, and children's.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsGood general range most subjects average prices. Worth a look. - Norman Davies 24.04.10.
Second visit in three months due to positive experience first time. Some unexpected happy finds, including good religion, psychology, MBS, literature and history sections. Shop a couple of doors above Black Books Cafe, so coffee is nearby. - S&S 02.11.13.
R J Caffrey Books
The Square
KINTBURY Berkshire RG17 9UP map
tel: 01488 658 788 e-mail web
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00 or by appointment.
Good general stock, Modern European and Military History, the Ancient World (Greek and Latin texts and translations always available), Art History, Photography, Architecture, Topography, Catholicism, Plays, Poetry and Irish interest (Literature, History and Culture).
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Rye Old Books
7 Lion Street
RYE East Sussex TN31 7LB map
tel: 01797 225410 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.30 & Sunday 1.00 - 5.00. (Phone to confirm in winter. Shop closes for annual holidays.)
General stock, something for everyone, from 50 pence to £3000. Childrens' illustrated, fine bindings, Irish interest literature. Our thirteenth year in business. We search for books at the most competitive price. We post to all corners of the earth.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA very brusque unwelcoming attitude to an opening simple query. Was made to feel totally unwanted. Asked two friends to go in, five minutes apart, each came out with the same feeling. Why go into a bookshop which doesn't want you in it. - Chris Harte 27.06.09.
Still the same unwelcoming attitude three years on and by the look of all the dust still the same stock! - Tikit 12.07.12.
Rubbery Legs. 1/10. - The Boxer 17.09.13.
A laughably rude proprietor: I asked her to show me the Visual Arts section, and she snorted and declared: "ALL arts are visual." (Not true; literary and performing arts are two categories.) Dull old stock. Rye deserves better than this. - Nicholas Sack 29.07.14.
A shame you haven't had the good experience I have always had in this bookshop the proprietor is a knowledgeable bookseller with whom I have enjoyed wonderfully engaging conversations (just this week as a matter of fact). - Jen Lindsay 30.08.14.
Saintfield Antiques and Fine Books
Vestry Hall
Vestry Road
BALLYGOWAN Co. Down BT23 6HQ map
tel: 028 9752 8428
Open: Thursday - Saturday 11.30 - 5.00.
Small stock including Ireland, travel, exploration, literature and illustrated books.
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Saturday Books
61 Tower Street
DUDLEY West Midlands DY1 1ND map
tel: 01384 481455 or 079771 481455 e-mail web
Open: Monday &Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 2.00 - 5.00. Saturday 10.00 - 3.00.
I have large collections of English and American literature, military history, self-help and special needs education. If this not diverse enough, some 30 other catalogues. Link through website. A physical shop too, open daily but with restricted hours
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsFocused on good condition stock with an academic tilt, very friendly owner and more importantly lots of people coming and going! Good central location two minutes from the still bustling open market - Peter Hadley 21.09.17.
Secret Book & Record Store
15A Wicklow Street
DUBLIN 2 Co. Dublin map
tel: +353 (0)1 6797272
Open: Monday - Wednesday 11.00 - 6.30, Thursday 11.00 - 8.00, Friday - Sunday 11.00 - 7.00.
We buy, sell and exchange books - philosophy, poetry, history, music, film, Irish interest, literature, psychology, art, sci-fi & fantasy, science.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsI was completely taken aback as I entered this shop situated at the end of a long hallway. A very varied selection of fairly modern books and quality jazz coming from the vinyl section. Nothing old but some really interesting titles which caused me to make a number of impulse purchases. This place is worth a visit. - Chris Harte 09.11.15.
The owner, Dermot, is not as gruff as he pretends to be. Little for the collector but a good value bookshop. Many interesting remainder titles. Discounts for multiple purchase available. - Loyola 24.11.15.
On this occasion we can agree completely with Chris Harte. Interesting shop and worth seeking out. - David 18.08.16.
Sedgeberrow Books
25 High Street
PERSHORE Worcestershire WR10 1AA map
tel: 01386 751830 (anytime) fax: 01386 751830 e-mail web
Open: Open: Monday - Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9.30 - 5.00. PLEASE NOTE: We will be closed from 17/1/19 to 26/1/19 inclusive.
Located in a Grade 2* listed building, over 20000 secondhand books on most subjects, specialising in aviation, naval and maritime, military history, British and world history, and transport, over 1000 titles in each section. Extensive local history plus a selection of antiquarian titles. Large literature sections. We also stock local and fine art photographs, picture frames, photo albums and jigsaws.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsDefinitely worth a visit if you are in the area, whether the other bookshops are open or not! If I say that the military and history sections are very good, that doesn't mean the others aren't; I am merely commenting on my own special interests. - Geoffrey Warner 07.07.11.
A pleasant and knowledgeable owner and good stock. Worth going into Pershore for this shop. - Mary 16.07.11.
This is a well organized general shop with a cabinet of antiquarian books. For my tastes the stock is light but surprisingly I and others left most contented with our purchases. - OWC 13.09.12.
This is a serious bookshop with serious prices. The stock has great variety and includes framed maps and prints, but, given the way the books are tightly stacked in the shelves, one wonders whether there is a very large turnover here. As Ive already implied, pricing is such that you will definitely not come away with a bagful of bargains, but if you are looking for a specific title you will quite possibly find it at what is probably a fair price. There is always a place for shops of this type, but I'm afraid that I came out empty handed, despite the fact that I'm always eager to spend more than a few quid if the spirit moves me - sadly I was not moved in Pershore. - Nicholas Pendower 13.10.12.
How ironic to be criticised for keeping our shop well stocked. Gaps don't sell. We manage our stock proactively, shelves are refilled weekly with 8-10 crates of fresh stock, and yes, we do have a very healthy turnover of books, thank you! - Jayne & David, Sedgeberrow Books 18.10.12.
I have to agree with the owners of this bookshop, regarding Mr Pendowers comments. This is an excellent bookshop, with a large, wide range of both fiction and non-fiction. Lets be honest, we all wish books were cheaper in reality, prices here are on a par with similar businesses. Why not pop along? You will not be disappointed! - Will Tyler 01.11.12.
Quite a delight to visit and browse. Give yourself time though!! - David Stocks 02.11.12.
If you're a collector you'll know the feeling... Initial excitement at finding a big, well stocked bookshop ... Followed by disappointment when everything proves to be in uncollectable condition. My interest is fiction so other genres may be better represented. - Neil Goodlad 02.11.12.
I cannot believe the negative comments about this shop. This is one of the best bookshops I have visited in terms of quantity and quality of stock, the prices are not unreasonable at all and I have always noticed new stock every time I've been there. Just because there is nothing for you on the day you go does not warrant such criticism. Definitely well worth a visit. - Daniel 10.01.13.
Whenever I've visited I have found collectable books, in nice condition and at very reasonable prices. - Biblioshelf 10.07.13.
Having read the above reviews I was slightly wary on my visit. Overall my feelings were mixed having examined very neat shelves of books; purchasing nothing, but realising that every community needs a shop like this. Curate's Egg syndrome. - Chris Harte 16.11.13.
Revisited last week. In my humble view this is a superb dying breed s/h bookshop. OK prices not cheap but they are sensible and the range is impressive, I came away with a large bundle of various interests. WWAD. - Norman Davies 13.08.14.
Airy, smart and well kept premises. Definitely worth visiting. I was short of time and was wishing for the large history section to be better sorted. Military section was extensive. Not a bargain shop but not overpriced either. - Brian Stringer 02.10.14.
I visit this shop every six months or so. I find it a shop where there is usually something new in the items I collect. The owner has had a change round and he has found more room for the subjects that are most popular. The railway section has grown for example. Very well presented and easy to use The owner is very pleasant and chats about how he prices the books, he will negotiate. A good bookshop. - CB 06.02.16.
Since my last visit it seems that shelves have been better categorised. I found browsing easy and came away with three welcome additions to my collection. Everything still fairly general. - Chris Harte 24.05.16.
Superb service. Books were as advertised, nicely packaged and arrived well before they were expected. Hoping to do business again. - John 30.08.16.
Quite possibly the best military stock I've found in the Midlands. Not only do the owners categorize down to aviation/naval level but even more precisely than that e.g. fleet air arm/bomber command sections which makes browsing so effortless. The military and railway sections were extensive and the stock of high quality. Plenty of parking in the nearby Asda just off the High Steet. Bulk discount offered and a very pleasant and knowledgeable owner. I had to restrain myself to just 10 purchases - it could have easily been double! This bookshop clearly is WWAD and I shall be visiting as regularly as I can. - Laurence Batchelor 06.09.18.
Skoob
66 The Brunswick
BLOOMSBURY London WC1N 1AE map
tel: 020 7278 8760 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 8.00 (and Bank Holidays), Sunday 10.30 - 6.00.
London's broadest selection of secondhand academic books, the UK's widest range in philosophy and large collections of modern literature, art, history, politics, economics, classics, science and technology.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThe description (London's broadest selection of secondhand academic books, the UK's widest range) is theirs and is not justified. It has a good and broad range, but it is not that significant. - George Marshall 06.02.09.
Wide variety at very reasonable prices but nothing for the collector. - Loyola 24.04.10.
Sadly this shop always disappoints, very drab stock, often overpriced & never anything collectable. tradng.ava 31.03.11.
Little for collectors perhaps, but plenty for readers - which is the main thing. Very wide stock in humanities and social sciences, especially strong in history, classics, literature and art. Highly recommended. - GP 16.07.11.
Another regular lunchtime browsing spot for me. Bit surprised by comments that there is little for the collector - extensive Penguin collection, plus many JM Dent and other older series. The most interesting stuff is all around the till area, most of the good stuff pulled out of the general stock shelves. It's a good experience all round with my only complaint being that (especially in the last year or so) prices seem to have risen and many of the books are not very competitively priced. Still always worth a visit. - M&O 14.04.12.
Odd comments from the above. Skoob has the largest collection of plays and philosophy in London, and an incredible antiquarian selection if you ask. - ElBib 12.07.12.
Very negative experience. Holder of their little stall nearby sent me in the wrong direction (and on a massive wild goose chase) for the shop and chap on till didn't seem interested in this or the fact I was looking for higher-end Penguins. Apparently the rarer stuff goes to book fairs; I will pay top money for rare paperbacks, but this was lost on uninterested till boy. - Sam Glen 23.05.13.
Please beware of Mr Sam Glen, and his comment above. He is well known among the second-hand book trade as a customer to give a wide berth to. Poor chap.ElBib 24.08.13.
Re Elbib - to suggest I am well known as a scourge of the second-hand book trade is flattering, but entirely untrue. At least I put my name to reviews and stand by my comments. Strange this seems to be your only comment on the site. - Sam Glen 29.08.13.
Still one of the best secondhand shops in London as far as fiction choice and stock is concerned. The prices are still high even by Oxfam standards but worth a visit. At the weekend there is a good non-Skoob stall at ground level in the Brunswick Center itself. - Jon Morgan 10.09.14.
Air conditioning in this rather cramped basement is a blessing. There's an extensive stock of artists' and photographers' monographs, my specialism, including some rarities. Recent books in perfect nick are generally half the published price. I found an unusual collection by the American photographer Dan Weiner, 1974, going for a song. - Nicholas Sack 01.08.15.
Cramped basement, but at least it is full of decent s/h books. Impressive politics and sociology collection, which I found reasonably priced for London and came away with a couple of wants. - Norman Davies 29.08.15.
Sizeable basement with substantial academic stock sections and good general range elsewhere. Small music book section, which makes the presence of an upright piano somewhat incongruous. How did they get it down those stairs? Prices high, but reasonable for London. - Steven Kelly 09.05.16.
Prices very high even for London - their policy seems to be to charge half the new price so expect to pay 4 to 5 quid for very ordinary paperback novels whatever the age or condition. - Yossarian 03.06.16.
This shop combines very good stock with very high prices. It therefore encourages browsing which should be careful in both senses. Not for the bibliographically incontinent! - The Bookman 16.07.16.
Back again on the 13th of April. Fair while since I managed to buy an item there. Not very impressed with the manner of many of the items on the shelves. Think the workers need to make these all look better. - Chris K 21.04.17.
The stock has become a little tired of late and little seems to shift but the crime fiction and general fiction sections are extensive (and expensive) and foreign language is not bad either. They must be making money based on what they pay for books brought in for sale and what they subsequently mark them up for. You can hear the disappointment in the vendor's voice as they wonder whether it is worth carting them home / elsewhere. That said, the rent / rates must be eye watering. - Jonathan Morgan 15.09.18.
St Andrews Christian Bookshop
57c St Clement's Street
OXFORD Oxfordshire OX4 1AG map
tel: 01865 247567 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.30.
Christian literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsMainly new but a good selection of remainders (good in both senses of the word) and a secondhand bookroom of general Christian books along with some more specialised theology. It is not worth a special journey but if you are looking for Christian books in Oxford it is certainly worth a detour out to St Clements. - Steven 25.07.15.
St Philip's Books
82 St Aldates
OXFORD Oxfordshire OX1 1RA map
tel: 01865 202182 fax: 01865 202184 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Specialists in academic, humanities, theology, history, philosophy, literature and art.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsA must among Oxford's ever dwindling number of secondhand bookshops. It specialises in Christian books, with an emphasis on Roman Catholicism: not popular paperbacks (although it has a few of these), but serious, scholarly works on bible study, patristics, theology and church history. In addition, it has worthwhile sections on art, literature and secular history. - Professor Geoffrey Warner.
For specialists (and the wealthy) only. If you're looking for bargains or modern literature, don't bother. Great views of Christ Church though. - Nick Campsall 04.11.08. WWAD for its (allbeit) specialist stock and worth a look for the occasional surprise. - Steven Whitehead 09.06.12.
A professionally run establishment with an academic based stock so view website prior to visiting. Im a regular and find the prices to be fair. E-mails are answered which seems to be a rarity in the trade. - OWC 27.09.12.
Stone Trough Books
51 Walmgate
YORK North Yorkshire YO1 9TY map
tel: 01904 670323 web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 1.00 & 2.00 - 5.30.
Small general stock, literature and art.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsMoved to this address 01.07.09. TBG.
Waited and waited for the shop to open after lunch. No luck. Looking through the window it would appear that music matters were a particular strength. - Chris Harte 23.03.15.
I was just too late to find this open, if it had been open in the first place, Although an avowedly musical bookshop, it seems from the window, the books on the table in the front room and the flyer in the window to have a good general stock as well. - Jon Morgan 13.05.17.
Back there after 11 am. Old man upstairs where I did find a nice item. We then went down to the back part to sort this. - Chris K 19.04.18.
Tarrington Books
Shire Cottage
TARRINGTON Herefordshire HR1 4EU map
tel: 01432 890746 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 10.00 - 6.00, appointment necessary.
Thousands of antiquarian and collectable books in stock including crime fiction, signed first editions, vintage Penguin paperbacks, military, history, theology, engineering and quality fine bindings. New stock added every month. We primarily trade online but browsers are more than welcome by appointment.
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The Antique Map and Bookshop
32 High Street
PUDDLETOWN Dorset DT2 8RU map
tel: 01305 848633 fax: 01305 848992 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00
Miscellaneous stock of antiquarian and good quality second-hand books. Specialities: 19th.century literature, esp.G.A.Henty, H.Rider Haggard, Thomas Hardy, H.G.Wells, A.C.Doyle. Also Travel/ Fine Bindings/ Illustrated books. Established in 1976. Members of ABA and PBFA. Puddletown is just outside Dorchester on the A35 to Bournemouth.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsRang ahead to check opening hours and stock. Arrived to find piles of what I collected awaiting me. Very helpful and knowledgeable young man in charge of shop. - Chris Harte 14.04.09.
Specialist limited but fine book stock. Helpful staff - a good collector's shop not one for the generalist. - Norman Davies - 09.06.12.
Very fine bookshop with an excellent stock in certain subjects. Very pleasant young man with a good sense of humour and a willingness to negotiate. I was persuaded to pay the most I have ever paid for a book, but worth every penny. Well worth a visit. - CB 02.04.15.
Excellent place, but not for my wallet! - Rod Hughes 15.11.16.
The Aviation Bookshop
31-33 Vale Road
TUNBRIDGE WELLS Kent TN1 1BS map
tel: 01892 539284 fax: 01892 539597 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00.
For over 50 years we have stocked literature on the subject of aviation in all its aspects. Parking is available in the multi-story car park opposite the shop. The shop is situated in the centre of town about 200 yards from the main line station: Tunbridge Wells on the Charing Cross Line.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWhat it said on the tin; Extensive stock on all aviation related topics. A well organised and well laid out shop if your interest lies in this area. (Biggles is a far as it gets for me - Chocks away!) - Jon Morgan 07.03.13.
From Kites & Balloons to present day. A two hour browse around a goodly selection of interesting new & s/hand, civil & military, aviation books was well worth my time & travel. - Zim 29.05.15.
The Book Barge
Our usual mooring is:
The Promenade Barton Marina
BARTON UNDER NEEDWOOD Staffordshire DE13 8DZ map
tel: 07946 605324 e-mail web
Open: See website for times and locations.
The Book Barge comprises a mix of new and secondhand fiction that tries to reflect the very best of contemporary, classic and children's literature. Books have been carefully selected to offer a quality alternative to high street bestseller lists including, among others, specialist sections exploring topical issues, titular oddities and travel ephemera.
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The Book Cellar at St Richard's Hospice
11 High Street
EVESHAM Worcestershire WR11 4DA map
tel: 01386 422921 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00.
We have a vast selection of high quality secondhand books, catering for a wide variety of tastes. We also stock some Folio Society and old collectable books. All funds raised through sales support St Richard's Hospice.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsExcellent extensive selection in a largeish basement room. Above average charity shop and I made several purchases. Sadly some older books seem to have been "Oxfam-ed" or "Abe-ed" priced. - Norman Davies 13.03.17.
I was rather underwhelmed with this one having travelled over from Stow after visiting Evergreen Livre. Although there is a lot of books in the basement at charity shop prices the quality is low. Only 1 purchase made which the ladies upstairs kept me waiting a long time to pay for. The charity shops in the town were all of a general nature with poor selections of books making Evesham not high on the list of towns to visit for the booklover or collector. - Laurence Batchelor 06.12.18.
The Eagle Bookshop
103 Castle Road
BEDFORD Bedfordshire MK40 3QP map
tel: 01234 269295 e-mail web
Open: Monday to Saturday 10.00 - 5.30.
A very large shop, with rooms devoted to history, the arts, the sciences, mathematics, literature and general / antiquarian books. Our prices range from £5 upwards on the shelves, with bargain trollies outside when the weather is fine. Established in 1991, our shop has been expanding ever since - recently into the neighbouring property. We like buying books!
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsIn a quiet part of the town, just outside the centre. A fairly large shop, with several rooms; very well laid out; a good mixture of modern and antiquarian books; friendly and helpful staff. Well worth a visit. - Richard Beaton.
Fairly large stock in this out of town shop. Owner certainly knew his subject. Very good local and regional holdings and some rare topography books. - Chris Harte 13.10.09.
lots of very erudite and arcane looking tomes. Few really readable books but some beautiful volumes on display. What a second hand bookshop should look and feel like but something was missing for me ... - Jon Morgan 20.02.12.
Definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in Bedford otherwise refer to the comprehensive and interesting website first. During the week you will probably have the shop to yourself. Parking and refreshments nearby. - OWC 10.09.12.
Lovely shop, knowledgeable owner, wide selection and fair prices. well worth a visit. - Astrid 06.03.13.
Excellent, interesting and characterful stock in four or five rooms, moderately priced. Includes a "bookshop within a bookshop" as it's described: a room with shelves of £1, £2 or £5 etc books, with some nice finds. WWAD. Street parking outside. - Mark V 02.04.15.
A very good bookshop if you are a keen specialist in the history of mathematics philosophy and the sciences. For those interests WWAD. Less outstanding, but still good and WAD. Certainly one of Bedford's more compelling features. - The Bookman 16.07.16.
Excellent shop, the very epitome of what a secondhand bookshop should be. Strong on engineering and the arts as well as local history. Don't miss the vintage telegraphy equipment upstairs. WWAD if you're anywhere near Bedford. - Steven Kelly 08.04.17.
Excellent shop. VG stock and good prices. We always call in when in the area. WWAD. - David 21.04.17.
An excellent but pricey shop laid out across 5 rooms. 1 room upstairs has been turned into a sale room with books for £1 or £2. Those books seem unsorted so one needs plenty of time to browse. The history room for me was towards the back upstairs, and although the military holdings were extensive, I struggled to find any naval or aviation books to buy. Despite this weakness in stock I came away with 2 books so not a wasted journey. Pricing for me was on the high side as just about every military hardback I pulled out was £10 so 2 books on intelligence in WW2 I didn't buy as a result. Lastly there's an onsite toilet upstairs if like me you've travelled far. - Laurence Batchelor 25.09.18.
A marvellous bookshop. I've been visiting it for years and always come away with wonderful things. Owner friendly and helpful and prices extremely fair. Very much the place to discover new and unfamiliar things, even for the seasoned collector. - Christopher 08.10.18.
The Forest Bookstore
26 Market Place
SELKIRK Scottish Borders TD7 4BL map
tel: 01750 22763 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 10.00 - 1.30 & 2.30 - 4.30, Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
Literature, Art & Environment. Contemporary & Modern . Scottish and International
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsPrincipally carrying new titles, the S/H books are on a couple of bookcases at the back. Prices on the high side - although the majority of titles are in very nice condition. - Steven Kelly 10.07.15.
Sadly I could not find any second hand books and the owner was in a rush to close as she had to go and see her daughter and closed early at four o'clock. As a bookshop for new books it seemed very good. - CB 27.08.16.
The Frome Bookshop
18 King Street
FROME Somerset BA11 1BH map
tel: 01373 473964 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.00 and first Sunday of the month.
Hand picked books on subjects including ornithology and British wildlife, children's illustrated books, fine bindings, literature, art and first editions. Books bought & sold.
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The Gently Mad
2 Summer Place
EDINBURGH Midlothian EH3 5NR map
tel: 0131 261 6028 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 11.00 - 6.00.
In the shop above our bindery we hold an interesting selection of antiquarian and collectable books that cover a wide range of subjects. We always have a good selection of military, natural history, children's illustrated, transport, sports, folklore and legends, art, history and classic literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWas T & B Bookcrafts, changed ownership and name in January 2013. TBG 06.03.13.
Times of change at The Gently Mad, with stock en route from the first floor to the basement. This move should be completed shortly. In the meantime, a concentrated essence is on display, illustrated books and decorative bindings of great beauty, in that small part of the shop that is not occupied by the bindery. I was in heaven! Staff were friendly and the emporium felt very accessible. Prices are high, sadly, but a visit is sheer visual joy. - TravellingLibrary 01.08.15.
Expanding - the owners are in the process of opening the basement, in order to relieve the rather cramped area upstairs. - Richard Beaton 05.10.15.
Shop has now expanded - you can go down to the basement, where I did find one Edinburgh book to add to my collection. Better condition titles are in the window but too many others not in great nick. - Chris K 23.02.16.
I loved this shop - chaotic with variable condition items but an excellent place to spend browsing time. Fascinating and less stuffy than many others in Edinburgh. - Norman D 30.10.16.
The Haunted Bookshop
9 St. Edwards Passage
CAMBRIDGE Cambridgeshire CB2 3PJ map
tel: 01223 312913 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Antiquarian and secondhand, with occasional new. Children's titles, mainly twentieth century. A few local history books, bindings, poetry and literature. We buy selectively in all the above areas and mail to anywhere in the world.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAlthough there are selections of titles on cookery, fiction and general literature it is the children's section which caught the eye and the ear. The prices tourists were paying for these latter noted books was quite mind-boggling. Expensive is the word. - Chris Harte 13.09.12.
Tiny shop. Tired stock. I suspect the better stock is put aside for book fairs and the shop stock is for American tourists. The pricing is supernatural. - Loyola 13.04.17.
The Last Bookshop
73 Park Street
BRISTOL BS1 5PG map
e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 7.00, Saturday & Sunday 10.00 - 7.00.
Good quality remainders including art, biography, children's books, fiction, history, and literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsAn excellent remainder shop with constantly changing stock. All books priced at £2. Expensive parking nearby. Worth a detour. - The Drifter 22.08.13.
Whiskers. 9/10. - The Boxer 17.09.13.
A good, if slightly limited range of books. the space in the shop was not put to best use and many interesting titles were actually on the floor under the tables. lots of customers, Not far from Bloom and Curll ... if you ever find it open, and the Oxfam up the road is worth popping in to ... - Jon Morgan 21.11.13.
Has now moved just down the road - books now £3 each or £10 for four. Not as good a selection as previously and more expensive. A pity. - The Drifter 22.10.14.
Address details updated today - TBG 22.10.14.
As remainder shops go this is not too bad. Lots of unsalable nonsense at the rear but some decent stuff on the tables at the front. - Chris Harte 15.11.14.
Disagree with many above. This is one of the better remainder shops with some pretty good modern fiction and nonfiction at £5 for 2. Worth a look if in Bristol. - Norman Davies 09.01.15.
Excellent variety and superb prices (or price as everything is the same: £3 per book or two for £5.) Only drawback is the steepness of the hill but no doubt the walk did me good. - Steven 05.11.15.
Better organised than in the previous location with many remainder titles I had paid full price for over the years (frustratingly). Some good quality stock. and at £3 each many bargains to be had. - Jonathan Morgan 15.11.16.
Very good remainder shop. Books at £5.00 for 2 or £3.00 each some of which we saw in other shops at far higher prices. WWAD. - David 29.09.17.
The best shop for recent remainders for many miles. WWAD indeed. - Norman Davies 31.05.18.
The Last Bookshop
25 Walton Street
OXFORD Oxfordshire OX1 2HQ map
e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 6.00, Saturday 10.00 - 6.00, Sunday 11.00 - 5.00.
Good quality remainders including art, biography, children's books, fiction, history, and literature.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsEver-enticing remainders shop, now back in Oxford's boho/boutique village. With books displayed outside on a sunny day, and coffee on sale, it's a Saturday-morning destination. - Paul O 10.09.14.
Lots of good remaindered/overstocked new items with some s-h books, especially downstairs. Paid £5 for 2 new French travel items worth £29.98 ...- Chris K. 26.09.15.
Not just remainders any more. It's evolved into a full-on secondhand shop on two floors. There are now two basement rooms open, one with loads of twentieth-century fiction (where I pounced on several titles by neglected authors). It's odd to think that this shop used to be a video rentals place -- the digital age wiped out video, but books seem to be making a comeback. - Paul O 10.06.16.
This was easily the best of the bookshops which we visited in Oxford. Prices reasonable, mix of second hand and remainders. - David 04.01.19.
The Market Bookshop
(in Blackrock Market)
19A Main Street
BLACKROCK Co. Dublin
tel: 086 395 0987 web
Open: Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays - 11:00 - 5.30.
About 2,000 books, Irish interest, arts, humanities, literature, rare and collectable. High turnover in stock with 100s of new titles arriving every week.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsDon't know whether we chose a bad Sunday for this but just 3 stalls selling overpriced and not very good paperbacks. - David 18.08.16.
I'm not sure if the reviewer found our shop (upstairs) in the market. We are choked with obscure and collectible hardcover books, some of our customers go around and put a zero at the end of my prices as that's what they've paid elsewere. - Tim (owner) 13.05.17.
The Open Road Bookshop
Park Street
STOKE BY NAYLAND Suffolk CO6 4SE map
tel: 07929 526 763 e-mail
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
A small second hand bookshop specialising in poetry and literature in the heart of Constable country. There are also shelves on nature, travel, music, art and sport as well as biography and some miscellaneous non-fiction.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsVery friendly and welcoming. Not very big, but interesting stock. - Peter 23.05.13.
Popped into this lovely little shop for first time today. David the owner is a genial host, the stock varied and reasonably priced. He plays vinyl too! - Carl 25.01.14.
The Porter Bookshop
227 Sharrow Vale Road
SHEFFIELD South Yorkshire S11 8ZE map
tel: 0114 266 7762
A good quality stock leaning towards the academic and including the humanities, literature and philosophy.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThe epitome of a good secondhand shop with tottering piles of newly purchased stock at every turn and many "deeply stocked" subject areas such as history, art books, cinema, psychology and literature. The manager plays good music, and Sheffield's best fish'n'chip shop, Two Steps, is close by. - S+S 18.07.11.
While not a large shop, it's well worth the trip out to Sharrow Vale Road, where parking is quite convenient. The stock is of very good quality and there are some unusual titles. - Nicholas Pendower 01.11.12.
Brilliant shop for the fiction reader. Stock is extensive, fairly priced and contains recent and interesting titles. The SF is particularly good. - Jake Kirkwood 22.03.13.
Best bookshop in Sheffield! - Chants 15.06.13.By far the best little book shop in Sheffield. Crammed full of books and charm. - Chanty 02.01.14.
Can't agree with any of the comments. Found this a dull outfit. (It's within walking distance of 2 other s/h bookshops.) Perhaps the dirty floor put me off; that and the tall, wobbly stacks of books. Shallow Vale Road does have some other interesting shops - one selling great railway posters caught the eye. - Chris K 01.04.14.
The Topsham Bookshop
(Was Joel Segal Books)
27 Fore Street
TOPSHAM Devon EX3 0HD map
tel: 01392 877895 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.00, closed for lunch 1.00 - 2.00.
Our large general stock covers many areas of interest, including Devon and West Country Topography, British and World Topography, History (especially Social History and Archaeology), The Arts, Transport and English Literature. We have a large stock of fiction titles.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsLove their colour themed window displays, and they always have a good selection of art and cinema titles. - TBG.
Superb find - a real well stocked quality second hand stock. Sensible prices very wide list of subjects, friendly staff. Well worth a detour. - Norman Davies 23.10.10.
A proper secondhand shop and worth a detour but I found the prices on the steep side. If they had cost less I would have spent more. - Steven Whitehead 26.04.11.
Great bookshop. You could lose yourself for a few hours inside. Prices do vary. - BGP 05.05.11.
Due to an amicable termination of partnership, the bookshop at 27 Fore Street is now operating as The Topsham Bookshop and is owned and managed by Lily Neal. Joel Segal will continue to trade as Joel Segal Books (www.segalbooks.com) and will be operating from The Cafe, 76 Fore Street, Topsham. - Chris K 12.03.12.
Recommended shop with good, fairly reasonably priced wide ranging stock. Beware they close for lunch! Worth a detour. - The Drifter 14.08.13.
Revisited today. Comments remain same - one of the best old fashioned s/h shops in the west with an excellent selection, prices fair. - Norman Davies 28.02.15.
Back again on Friday 18 September. Found another good item - the updated Pevsner Buildings of England Yorkshire: York and East Riding. Nearly new and cost almost a third of the full price. - Chris K 01.10.15.
A great shop with an interesting and varied stock at mostly reasonable prices. Certainly worth a visit. - SteveBrissle 07.04.16.
A most interesting bookshop with a wide selection of subjects. I enjoyed two full hours of browsing the shelves but, alas, the pricing put me off more than a single purchase. - Chris Harte 19.04.18.
Made a special visit to Topsham (challenging parking ) due to the reviews on TBG and was a little underwhelmed. Stock is extensive and spread over 4 rooms on 2 floors but I was limited to just 2 purchases and managed to view all their military naval stock in 15 mins. The lady owner Lily was on a day off but the gentlemen was helpful and directed me to all the right shelves. I would advise a visit if fiction or topography and travel are your thing. The most memorable thing about this shop for me was how when opening the front door it appears it's going to strike against the corner of the first bookcase but is made so it just misses it! - Laurence Batchelor 04.01.19.
This Way Up
85b Perth Road
DUNDEE Tayside DD1 4HZ map
tel: 07871563265 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 9.30 - 6.30.
The shop specialises in classic and modern fiction, with a strong focus on science fiction and 20th-century literature. As a member of the Radical Alliance of Booksellers, it also strives to stock a wide variety of titles informed by socialist, anarchists, feminist, environmental and anti-racist concerns. We're offering a small and distilled vinyl section featuring a hand-picked selection of both well-known and obscure titles across reggae, hip-hop, jazz, punk, metal, electronics etc.
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Toby English
6 St. Marys Street
WALLINGFORD Oxfordshire OX10 0EL map
tel: 01491 836389 e-mail web
Open: By appointment only.
Visitors are welcome by appointment, please phone in advance. There are in stock thousands of second-hand, rare and scholarly books on many subjects but especially Art, Architecture, Children's and Illustrated Books, Travel, Literature and History.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsCertainly worth a visit. Jam-packed with books - piles on the floor, which creates a pleasingly bibliomaniacal atmosphere, but doesn't make it easy to look around. Especially strong on art. Good condition, not cheap but fairly priced; friendly owner. Also immediately opposite the Oxfam bookshop. - David Gouldstone 30.10.09.
Stacked with irresistible quality and run by someone who knows what books are about. - OWC 18.09.12.
Moved to this address in 2015. - TBG 24.11.15.
Treadwell's
33 Store Street
Bloomsbury
BLOOMSBURY London WC2E 7PS map
tel: 0207 419 8507 e-mail web
Open: Week days11.00 - 7.00, Weekends:12.00 - 7.00.
Treadwell's bookshop is undoubtedly the most magical bookshop in London. It specialises in History, Mythology, Neopaganism, Wicca literature, Anthropology, Comparative Religions and more. In addition to its rare collection of written texts, herbs and incenses, Treadwell's also runs a successful series of events where clusters of academics, poets, artists and practitioners gather together to discuss philosophical matters until the early hours of the morning.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThe description fits the shop generally: overblown, full of glamour (in the proper sense), and delusional. The stock is not particularly impressive, and seems highly priced. - Putney 17.09.13.
Undercover Books
Loose's Fleamarket
23-25 Magdalen Street
NORWICH Norfolk NR3 1LP map
tel: 07745 924388 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday:- 10.00- - 5.30, Sunday 11.00 - 4 .00.
A large and ever-changing selection of modern period 'classic' fiction in hardback and paerback, crime, sci-fi, 'pulp', horror. A good children's selection including early Puffin and pictorial board books are always in stock. Art books and hard-to-find titles in various genres. A solid travel section and a number of antiquarian books. Local interest, of course, and academic books too.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsThe fleamarket is an Aladdin's Cave and that's what, I think, they call it anyway. Undercover Books is set up upstairs at the front of the building on the first floor and it's a real delight. I was able to pick up some long lost sci-fi at a very reasonable price and could have spent a whole lot more time here just browsing a great selection of really interesting stuff. It's really a little gem. Highly recommended. - singsong64 04.02.12.
Appearing but once a week with an ever changing array of genuinely difficult to find titles curated by a veritable pulp meister - Nigel! (for that is his name) Go undercover and discover a world you thought was only in books ... book farmer 20.02.12.
Went back to Undercover Books after over a year and it is clearly on the up. Increased stock of high quality. Impressed by the fiction, modernism, crime, SF, drama, theory; also posters, comics, pamphlets ... a good atmosphere and a strong sense that the bookseller knows his onions. Prices seemed very reasonable. One of the best second-hand outlets of its kind in Norwich at the moment? - pinefox 12.09.15.
My first visit was disappointing as I stayed on the ground floor an found a lacklustre selection of books on shelves at the back of this vast emporium. Then I read the reviews above and realised that I had actually missed the real Undercover Books on the first floor at the front. A good selection in almost every genre with a very knowledgeable and attentive owner. He obviously knows the trade and the stock. Other charity shops in a large Oxfam with a good stock of charity stock books almost opposite. - Jon Morgan 06.07.17.
Unsworths Antiquarian Booksellers
Crownleigh House
The Street
BOTESDALE Suffolk IP22 1BS map
tel: 07802 875469 e-mail web
Open: Appointment necessary.
We buy and sell collectable, rare and scholarly books from every century of printing and on all the humanities, including literature, philosophy and society, with an antiquarian focus on early printing, Greek & Latin classics, Medieval & Renaissance Europe, and British history & topography.
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Vanessa Parker Rare Books
Old Thatch
MULRANNY Co. Mayo
tel: 00353 (0)8723 39221 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 11.00 - 6.00 July to mid September, rest of the year pot luck or appointment.
We stock a wide range of books with an emphasis on early children`s, illustrated, fine bindings & sets, antiquarian, Irish, poetry literature, history,horses & dogs, country pursuits, fishing, plus much more. See our slowly growing website for books for sale. We also stock prints wrapped ready for sale and genuine Antiques. In a very picturesque location overlooking the mountains across clew bay.
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Voltaire and Rousseau
18 Otago Lane
GLASGOW Lanarkshire G12 8PB map
tel: 0141 339 1811 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 11.00 - 6.30.
Large stock including literature, history, Scottish and antiquarian books.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsDown a much friendlier lane off Otago street than Thistle Books, this big shop could give Caledonia Books a run for its money with the amount of stock. Books to the ceiling but also in piles on the floor in front of the bookshelves. With more stock than they really have room for, it gives the impression that the book you are after is there if only you could spend the time moving the piles about. However if you want to search through the science fiction pile you might have to persuade the sleeping cat to move first. That said, this is my favourite shop in the area, always worth a visit. - Jeremy Briggs.
Cluttered just about starts to describe this dump. Give yourself a couple of hours just to move the mainly-creased stock from where they are dumped. As for looking at any of the lower shelves, forget it unless you like shifting piles of stuff with nowhere to put it. They need to dump the crap and then they could display the books they have which are worth buying. - The Wanderer 11.02.09
Voltaire and Rousseau's is an institution and I like going there, and there's a secret to dealing with the piles of books in front of the shelves. Simply knock them over. One of the guys then comes along and insists that he will sort it out. When he's doing that you simply stand beside him and look at what he's picking up. Easy! Good prices in here and the military section is extensive. Never seem to have much travel or biography, which is quite unusual. Cash only too,which can be a bit of a pain,especially if you?re buying a decent quantity. - Allan Campbell 06.03.09.
Certainly not a dump. Great '£1 and under' section, great sci fi section and very good history section. The fact that you have to do a little bit of searching is not a problem. 'Cash only' doesnt bother me as I often carry money. - Ian McElroy 18.08.09.
- Norman Davies 10.06.10.
After half-an-hour in this shop I felt almost suicidal - Richard 04.08.10.
Absolutely eccentric and highly recommended if you don't mind getting your hands and knees dirty. Prissy-minded librarians should avoid at all costs. The book you want is here but you have to find it. Books are buried so long that bargains eventually emerge. I love this shop. Full of character. And characters. - Ken Bogle 30.09.10.
A Glasgow institution. Look on it as a fantastical book cave, with crumbly walls. - Alan Forbes 31.0511.
The stock keeps increasing. Someone is going to get crushed by a ton of books. At least the bystanders will then be able to see the books behind the fallen tower. Love the place but rarely leave it with the book I went in for. - Lorenzo T 27.09.12.
Pure anarchy. That really is the only way to describe this quite wonderfully cluttered shop. For a perfect search allow two days while wearing old clothing. I wondered initially if I would find anything I collected. After three hours the boot of my car was full and I had paid an unexpected visit to a cash machine. The treasures hidden away are breathtaking. But, as a warning, you will need patience. WWAD. - Chris Harte 30.11.12.
Very large stock for size of premises. Complete with cat. - mikey 29.03.14.
Chaotic, anarchic and a legendary Glasgow institution. I guarantee that you will find five volumes of that six volume set which you have always been looking out for. He's swear he knows where the sixth is ... Not to be missed. - Oor Wullie 26.07.14.
Revisited after 5 years - Marmite place. I love it including rearranging the huge unwieldy piles and found some goodies. Patience and strength needed. Unfortunately the combined bad weather + presence of 2 less fortunate souls gave a pungency to the rear of the shop which ultimately shortened our visit. Back again in the spring! - Norman Davies 24.11.15.
Always interesting and in its own way exciting to visit. That said I tend to be buying much less than I used to do. Maybe this is me or maybe it is that among the huge volume of books there are less really desirable books than there once was. It could of course be that the books are becoming even more difficult to see amongst the piles and crowded shelves. - JohnT 22.02.16.
Anyone with a morbid fear of being buried alive should avoid this shop like the plague. What were presumably once neatly stocked shelves have been totally obscured by piles of randomly and precariously planted titles, encroaching upon what little floorspace there is. A "one-way system" should be in force around the shop as you could be trapped in there for ages by more sturdier souls rearranging said piles for that elusive tome. Felt claustrophobic and was unwilling to create an avalanche. I'm sure some visitors love it but I wasn't one of them I'm afraid. - Graeme Rendall 10.03.18.
Made a special trip as I've often found interesting items in the £1 room, but not this time as the £1 room was completely inaccessible due to boxes, a folded stepladder and piles of books on the floor. The only way to reach the shelves would be to dig a tunnel. - booksellerbull 06.10.18.
Walden Books
38 Harmood Street
CAMDEN TOWN London NW1 8DP map
tel: 020 7267 8146 web
Open: Thursday -Sunday 10.30 - 6.00.
Literature, art & general stock.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsVery good for travel, art and history. Friendly and expert owner. Prices reasonable. - James Salmon 21.08.09.
Overpriced and the owner always pretty snotty to me; add that to the impossible parking and this is one I've crossed off my list. I feel it may be a different story if you look wealthy enough. - Paintworks 08.07.10.
One of the greats, worth a visit if only to enjoy to the creaky floorboards.Bargains outside if you like literature. Disagree with Paintworks who anyway should use public transport. Owner friendly even if you look skint. A friend in need is a friend in debt (John Cooper Clark). - rickenbacher 10.08.13.
Great little shop tucked away in a side street near Camden Market. Good stock and reasonable prices, but by no stretch of the imagination is it in Primrose Hill. Chalk Farm is the location, the long-closed LT Chalk Farm bus garage used to be opposite the shop! - Steve Newman 05.12.15.
Thanks Steve but the owner says he's in Camden Town, so I've changed the address to that. - TGB 05.12.15.
Attractively located in a residential street away from the tumult of Camden Town, this shop is reassuringly traditional with compact spaces and creaking floorboards. Strong on art and design, with some unusual photography titles. Friendly owner and fair prices. - Nicholas Sack 15.03.16.
Two years on from my last visit and I'm glad to report that this endearingly old-fashioned shop hasn't changed. I found a literary and photographic paean to Highgate and Hampstead, handsomely published in 1967, at a keen price. Well worth a detour from the hubbub of Camden Town. - Nicholas Sack 28.03.18.
Wayne the Book Guy
24 Prudhoe Street
NORTH SHIELDS Tyne and Wear NE29 6QX map
tel: 07760 251278 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 4.00.
Second hand, loved books and collectables. Both fiction and non fiction. All genres and tastes. Now moved to the Wilbury Inn Cafe. Enjoy a cuppa with your book!
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Wild Ways
First Floor
The Buttermarket Middlegate
NEWARK Nottinghamshire NG24 1BF map
tel: 07983 869774 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
We are a Book and Games exchange located inside a beautiful edwardian shopping center. We stock a large range of collectable,second hand and new books, graphic novels, comics, board games, card games, jigsaws and wargaming. We are also a community hub! - Book Club - Discussion Group - Gaming Group - Workshops and Talks.
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Withnail Books
The Brunswick Yard
24 Brunswick Road
PENRITH Cumbria CA11 7JU map
tel: 07977 830 945 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
Bookroom within The Brunswick Yard antiques centre. 4000+ volumes of general stock, with a good selection of Cinema/TV, comics/graphic novels, some Cumbrian topography and a shelf of T.E. Lawrence. Opposite Booths, a short distance from the town centre. Free parking for customers in Brunswick Yard itself.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsWorth a visit, friendly, knowledgeable owner with reasonable prices. I think that he will be seeking to enlarge his stock from what he says. - CB 10.08.13.
A hidden Gem. Good selection, especially if you are into graphic novels, fair prices, and an owner who is clearly interested in the books. I enjoyed my visit and came away with a couple of nice items. - The Wanderer 22.03.14.
More general stock than the description and comments above suggest, enjoyable browse, plenty of parking on the other side of the road. Along with Beckside Books this makes Penrith WWAD. - PaulP 29.08.14.
A small bookshop in an architectural salvage yard beside Morrisons and opposite Booths supermarkets that looks like nothing from the outside and yet proved to be something of a treasure trove when I was there. They certainly have a lot of graphic novels along with a good cinema and TV section and an interesting selection of old and new military books. The owner was friendly, knew about the books that I purchased, and I ended up coming away with rather more than I expected to. An excellent accompaniment to the long-standing Beckside Books in the same town. - Jeremy Briggs 27.10.14.
Lots of interesting stuff - and not just books - makes this well worth stopping at. Prices are good and the titles are in the main not run of the mill fare. - Steven Kelly 26.01.16.
Interesting. First park at Morrisons - if you park at Booths beware deadly road crossing! A small shop with a limited but decent range - at first I wasn't convinced but a good browse revealed a few good buys. Chatty knowledgeable owner. - Norman Davies 29.04.16.
Interesting selection of titles in good condition. Prices reasonable. WWAD. Easily walkable from Beckside books. - David 01.10.18.
Young's Interesting Books
18 Skirving Street
Shawlands
GLASGOW Lanarkshire G41 3AA map
tel: 0141 6499599 e-mail
Open: Monday - Friday 11.00 - 6.00, Saturday 10.00 - 6.00 & Sunday 12.00 - 5.00.
Small but growing general selection, with an emphasis on illustrated, unusual and quirky titles, pop-up books and nice editions of modern and classic literature. Also a good Glasgow and Scottish selection. Just opened in Shawlands, as Glasgow's only Southside bookshop. We're buying as well, and we'd be delighted to find elusive items you're after.
Add a comment Read commentsHide commentsInteresting Books?. Not to me they weren't. Small shop, well located opposite an Oddbins and a popular cafe/deli. Having made an effort to get to a new shop, I try to find at least a courtesy purchase. Nearest to this was overpriced and NSOC. Another Drif acronym I like is NWAD. Chris K 01.07.10. (NSOC - Not Strong On Condition, NWAD - Not Worth A Detour. TBG)
I tend to agree with the first review, definately NSOC and NWAD. Not been up and running for a long so may improve with time. - The Bimbler 28.04.11.
Reasonable prices for hardbacks but silly prices for some less than pristine paperbacks. Not 'Glasgow's only Southside bookshop' as there is an excellent remainder/discount bookshop in Shawlands Arcade and Oxfam bookshop in Victoria Road. - Alan Forbes 31.05.11.
There are three reviews of the above shop on your site which were posted in our first few months of opening, the latest being two and a half years ago. Despite them we are thriving, and would request that someone comes round and sees the shop as it is now. It is a little unfair that early reviews of a shop, starting from scratch in very difficult circumstances, should be reviewed in such a negative light that it might prevent other people coming to see our progress. - Barry Young 11.10.13.
Reasonable, small selection on general subjects. However completely over-priced: for that reason, NWAD. - Steven Kelly 23.01.16.
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