So you’ve finished reading your last book, and now you’re looking to start a new one? Living in Leeds, but don’t know which bookshops are best to shop from. Well, it is understandable for you to be confused as Leeds is known for its vibrant literary tradition, and there are lots of places, including bookshops in this city that deserve a visit.
There is a myriad of legendary bookshops in Leeds, having an abundant genre of books. In this blog, we’ll list down some of the very best bookshops in Leeds that you must visit if you are a student studying in Leeds.
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Top Bookshops in Leeds
If you’re moving to Leeds for your studies, you’ll definitely need some good bookshops. Whether it’s textbooks, second-hand books, or just something fun to read, Leeds has some amazing spots. Plus, many of these places are student-budget friendly. Here are the 5 top bookshops in Leeds for students.
| Bookshops | Google Ratings |
| Waterstones | 4.6/5 |
| The Bookish Type | 4.8/5 |
| The Little Bookshop | 4.7/5 |
| Village | 4.5/5 |
| Colours May Vary | 4.9/5 |
Also Read: Weekend Getaways From Leeds For Students: Unlock Adventures With Exciting Destinations
Waterstones
Waterstones located on Albion Street is spread across three floors of beautiful books. The bookshop also has a cafe located on the first floor that serves some delectable food and hot coffee. The bookshop has friendly staff who can help you find a book of your choice. There is a wide range of genres available, including a colossal sci-fi/fantasy section. The bookshop provides great deals on books, another reason for you to visit it!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 93-97 Albion Street, Leeds |
| Speciality | Huge collection, Sci-fi/Fantasy focus |
| Extra Features | In-house café on the first floor |
| Why Visit | 3 floors of books, friendly staff, great deals |
| Online Orders | Yes |
| Distance | City centre – easy access from student areas |
The Bookish Type
This bookstore located on Great George St. is a small paradise for book lovers and students living in student accommodations in Leeds. Each section here is clearly labelled, which makes it easier to locate the section of your choice. The owner and the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. The bookshop also provides an online ordering service and is known for its timely delivery of books. Though a small bookstore, it is definitely worth a visit due to its excellent collection of books!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 28 Great George Street, Leeds |
| Speciality | Inclusive, diverse books & genres |
| Extra Features | Online ordering with timely delivery |
| Why Visit | Clear sections, helpful staff, cosy vibe |
| Online Orders | Yes |
| Distance | Close to student accommodations in central Leeds |
The Little Bookshop
This bookshop is located in Harrogate Road and was set up in 2017. Having its base in Leeds, the bookshop takes pride in delivering books all over the UK. The bookstore specialises in children’s books such as contemporary fiction, junior fiction, poetry, and graphic novels. The store also has a separate section for grownups with a variety of genres, including crime and mystery, graphic novels, fiction, non-fiction, biographies, food & drink, etc. The bookshop also hosts author events from time to time. Here’s a review of this beautiful place!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 47 Harrogate Road, Leeds |
| Speciality | Children’s books, crime, fiction, graphic novels |
| Extra Features | Hosts author events |
| Why Visit | Family-friendly, wide genre variety, UK-wide delivery |
| Online Orders | Yes |
| Distance | Suburban area but easy by bus from central Leeds |
Village
This bookstore is located in Thornton’s Arcade and has various books related to art, design, fashion, and photography. The bookshop also has a store in Manchester, which can be very close to your student accommodation in United Kingdom. The store has a calm and welcoming vibe and also has a small gift shop. If you are not able to find time to visit the store, then don’t worry! The bookshop also runs a seamless online order service and delivers the book on time.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Thornton’s Arcade, Leeds |
| Speciality | Art, design, fashion, and photography |
| Extra Features | Small gift shop, relaxed atmosphere |
| Why Visit | Unique creative books, online orders, peaceful vibe |
| Online Orders | Yes |
| Distance | City centre, great for quick visits between classes |
Colours May Vary
This bookstore specialises in selling books and other publications relating to art and design. The store is located in the Corn Exchange and is run by an incredibly passionate staff. The bookshop has a range of books, journals, prints, cards, and gifts. The store is located just a stone’s throw from the train station and is another must-visit bookstore in Leeds.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Corn Exchange, Leeds |
| Speciality | Art, design, journals, prints |
| Extra Features | Cards, gifts, close to train station |
| Why Visit | Independent vibe, curated collections, passionate staff |
| Online Orders | Yes |
| Distance | City centre, easy from student housing and campus |
Also Read: Exploring the best bookshops in Cambridge
FAQs
Some of the most famous bookshops in Leeds include Waterstones, Village, and The Little Bookshop.
Waterstones located on Albion Street serves savoury food and delicious coffee in its cafe located on the first floor.
Yes! Both Village and The Bookish Type provide the option of an online book ordering service.
Yes, many bookshops in Leeds, like Blackwell’s specialize in academic books for university courses and research.
You can find international titles at Waterstones, WHSmith, and independent bookshops in Leeds.
Some second-hand bookshops in Leeds like Oxfam Books buy or accept donations of good-quality used books.
Yes, big stores like Waterstones often offer 10% student discounts. Always ask at the counter or check online.
Most bookshops in Leeds are open on weekends, usually from 10 AM to 5 PM. Check their websites for exact timings.
There are several bookshops near Leeds University like Blackwell’s and Oxfam Books, within walking distance of campus.
Yes! Popular second-hand bookshops in Leeds include Oxfam Books, The Bookish Type, and Keighley Books. They are perfect if you’re on a budget.
That was all about bookshops in Leeds! If you are a student studying in Leeds then you must visit these bookshops as each one has something memorable to offer. Happy reading!
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