The Times names 12 of the UK’s best independent bookshops — as chosen by its readers.
Posted on in Business News
The Times has named 12 of the UK’s best independent bookshops — as chosen by its readers. Readers highlighted places that combined books with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Those that made the cut were:
Picture: facebook.com/KemptownBookshopBrighton
The Poetry Pharmacy, Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire
Reader Rachael Clyne from Glastonbury said the owners had “worked hard to convert the historic ambience and features into a poetry hub, where they hold workshops as well as a café with drinks and cakes while you browse.”
Kemptown Bookshop, Brighton
Robert Hamberger from Brighton said:
“Since the new owner, Cathy Hayward, took over the long-established bookshop a couple of years ago, she and her friendly well-informed staff have rejuvenated it. Kemptown Bookshop is now one of the hubs of the area.”
Script Haven, Worcester
Michael W Thomas wrote that “this shop makes a point of promoting local writers and small presses alongside established names and imprints. It’s altogether a welcoming atmosphere, with tea, coffee and pastries: when you’ve visited once, you’ll certainly want to return.”
Voce Books, Birmingham
Owned and run by Clive and Maria Judd, Garrie Fletcher said that Voce is “incredibly supportive of independent publishers and proud to be based in the heart of the country in Birmingham.”
Heron Books, Bristol
Bob Walton commented: “We’re not short of wonderful independent bookshops in Bristol but since Heron Books opened in 2022 something magical has appeared in the mix. It is easily the smallest bookshop imaginable (in a beautiful Victorian arcade) but that doesn’t stop the owners packing it with a huge range of diverse and up-to-date titles.”
David’s Bookshop, Letchworth
Started by the local Armitage family more than 60 years ago, this bookshop was named after their son, David. It comprises a bookshop, music store with popular vinyl and a café.
Storytellers, Inc, St Anne’s on the Sea
Carolyn Hampton says that “they run book groups and author events, and there is always a book suggestion if needed and help with present buying if needed. All the best people love books.”
Wimbledon Books, London
Anthea Richardson wrote: “Wimbledon Books has been on the High Street in Wimbledon Village for decades. Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable, and orders arrive the next day. Why go online to receive books in a cardboard box from an overworked courier?”
Wave of Nostalgia, Haworth
“Wave of Nostalgia openly celebrates women and the LGBTQ community. Downstairs is the cellar, an intimate and welcoming space where many top authors come and read several times a month. It’s a lovely bookshop where reading and community are celebrated.”
Christine Sanders, West Yorkshire
Blue Bear Bookshop, Farnham
“The shop is friendly and welcoming, with an eclectic selection of books including a good children’s section. It offers coffee, tea and cakes — served in Polish china cups and plates. It is dog friendly too”.
Edward Sturges
Storey, Kelso
“I would defy anyone to go in there and not disappear down a rabbit hole of wonderful books and eclectic subject matter. This is what makes it a brilliant bookshop because it takes me out of the ordinary and makes me think.”
Caroline Roseman
High Peak Bookstore, Buxton
A derelict garage on a busy road has been transformed into a cavernous booklover’s paradise. Add in a busy programme of talks, comedy and quiz nights and other events, knowledgeable staff and tables of locally produced crafts. I think it could inspire even the most reluctant reader to find a book to enjoy.
Emily Woodhams-Beazeley