Bristol is incomplete without a visit to its bookstores. How lovely would it be if you started your day with a coffee shop and then stumbled upon a bookstore on the way and ended up reading the book the whole afternoon along with your coffee? Every bookworm in Bristol will find a wide selection of books in the bookshops in Bristol, from used to new. This blog will provide you with the best bookshops in Bristol if you’re studying in Bristol and love reading books. Keep reading further to know more!
Table of Contents
Arnolfini Bookshop
Bristol is known for its famous bookshops and this is one of them. The shop is situated in Arnolfini, one of Bristol’s finest art galleries. What makes it even more special is that it is like being in a dream, filled with shelves of books that you’ve never seen before. Discover the artist in you with books, illustrations, art, artists, crafts, history, and much more.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Inside Arnolfini Art Gallery, Bristol |
| Speciality | Art books, illustrations, crafts, artists, history |
| Ambience | Dream-like space with rare and artistic collections |
| Perfect For | Art students and creative minds |
| Extra Info | Set in one of Bristol’s finest art galleries |
The Last Bookshop
This bookshop is must must-visit for students. The Last Bookshop on Park Street is Bristol’s cheapest bookstore, and you will feel lucky if you live in a nearby student accommodation in Bristol. Here, every book is £4 or less. What’s the reason for its low price? It is because the Last Bookshop specialises in purchasing book returns, remainders, second-hand used books and samples. You won’t find the newest bestsellers here, but there are plenty of contemporary classics and also some rare gems.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Park Street, Bristol |
| Speciality | Books under GBP 4, second-hand and remaindered books |
| Ambience | Simple, budget-friendly, full of hidden gems |
| Perfect For | Budget-conscious students and classic lovers |
| Extra Info | Great if you live in nearby student accommodation |
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Also Read: A BIBLIOPHILE’S PARADISE: EXPLORING UNIQUE BOOKSHOPS IN DUBLIN
Bookhaus
At Bookhaus, you’ll find everything from sci-fi to contemporary novels, small presses to literary classics, and even cuisine. Bookhaus, a radical centre based in Wapping Wharf, “reflects Bristol’s tradition as a centre of radicalism.” You can watch some frequent events, including reading groups, panel discussions, and book launches, here.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Wapping Wharf, Bristol |
| Speciality | Radical reads, small presses, literary classics, cuisine |
| Ambience | Modern, intellectual, and vibrant |
| Perfect For | Students interested in social issues and diverse genres |
| Extra Info | Hosts readings, book launches, and discussion panels |
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Dreadnought Books
We adore Dreadnought Books because they resemble our ideal living space in so many ways. Do you appreciate the fragrance of old books? There are wall-to-wall bookcases full of them, and there is a comfortable sofa where you may peruse them. There’s even a cute kitty scurrying about! Dreadnought Books is one of the last independently owned bookstores left in the state.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Bristol (independently owned) |
| Speciality | Old books, vintage collections |
| Ambience | Cozy, with wall-to-wall bookcases and even a resident cat! |
| Perfect For | Vintage book lovers and those who love the smell of old pages |
| Extra Info | One of the last indie bookshops in Bristol |
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The Good Book Shop
The Good Book Shop is East Bristol’s tiny but adorable bookshop that highlights radical, feminist, and underrepresented authors. The Good Book Shop carefully selects its books and groups them according to themes like Cities, Modern Love, and Possibilities to make it easier for you to find something new and it can be a good reason to head out of student accommodation in United Kingdom. Cat and Carla, the owners, also provide a book subscription service. Every month, they will hand-pick a book from the best modern fiction and nonfiction.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | East Bristol |
| Speciality | Radical, feminist, and underrepresented authors |
| Ambience | Small, thoughtfully curated, warm |
| Perfect For | Readers seeking diverse voices and themes |
| Extra Info | Monthly book subscription by the owners Cat and Carla |
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Storysmith
Storysmith is situated in Bristol, UK. You’ll discover a well-curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books here, so browsing here is always a treat. Relax and explore your heart’s content at Storysmith, which also serves coffee. If you love books, you should check out this bookstore at least once because it often hosts events with contemporary authors.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Bristol, UK |
| Speciality | Fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books |
| Ambience | Welcoming, clean, modern with coffee available |
| Perfect For | Book lovers, families, and students |
| Extra Info | Hosts events with contemporary authors |
Let’s See What People Have to Say
Must Read: 5 EXCITING WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM OXFORD FOR STUDENTS
Bloom and Curll
The best independent bookstore in Bristol is Bloom & Curll, which is situated on Colston Street close to the Christmas Steps. This amazing store has uneven shelves and books stacked up everywhere, giving it a quirky and independent atmosphere. The store offers both new and used books, ranging from philosophical novels to children’s literature, all of which are very reasonably priced. This store’s affiliation with Bristol Developing World Enterprises makes it even better. Establishing small enterprises out of the store’s profits aids in the creation of jobs in Africa. Therefore, in addition to enjoying the wide variety of literature, you can also benefit those in need by purchasing books.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Colston Street, near Christmas Steps, Bristol |
| Speciality | New and used books—philosophy, literature, children’s books |
| Ambience | Quirky, independent, with overflowing bookshelves |
| Perfect For | Students who love treasure hunting in bookshops |
| Extra Info | Supports African job creation through Bristol Developing World Enterprises |
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FAQs
Some of the best bookshops in Bristol include Waterstones, The Last Bookshop, Stanfords, and BookHaus. They offer a wide range of academic and general books. These stores are great for both study and leisure reading.
The opening hours of bookstores can vary, but generally, the bookstores open from 11 a.m. so it’s a good idea to check their individual websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their hours of operation.
Many bookstores in Bristol mentioned in this blog offer a combination of both new and used books. Be sure to explore their selection, as you may find some unique and affordable options in the used book sections.
Yes, several of the bookstores in Bristol, like Storysmith and Bookhaus, often host events, including reading groups, author discussions, and book launches. Check their event calendars or social media pages to stay informed about upcoming literary gatherings.
Waterstones and Blackwell’s (near the University of Bristol) are ideal for academic books. They stock textbooks across subjects and often offer student discounts. You can even ask staff to order a specific book.
Definitely! BookHaus, Blackwell’s, and Waterstones have branches close to the University of Bristol. You don’t need to travel far, and they’re perfect for grabbing a book between classes.
Yes, some bookshops like BookHaus and Waterstones have cosy reading corners or in-store cafes. You can sip coffee while reading or studying in a relaxed setting.
Stanfords is known for travel books and maps, while Hydra Bookshop is great for indie and political reads. You can explore niche topics that aren’t available in regular bookstores.
Many bookshops such as BookHaus and Waterstones host author talks, poetry nights, and book clubs. It’s a great way to meet people, especially if you’re new to the city.
Most bookshops are open from 9 or 10 AM to early evening. Weekdays are quieter, while weekends can be busier. Visiting during student welcome weeks might also offer extra discounts.
A thriving literary scene is reflected in the selection of independent bookshops in Bristol. These bookshops carry a wide variety of titles, whether you are seeking socially conscious reading material, rare editions, or just a pleasant place to explore the world of books.
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