6 Charming Bookshops in London: Exploring Literary Treasures

Farina Khan

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Bookshops-in-London

London is a world of literary treasures and a haven for bookworms. The capital city of the United Kingdom is renowned worldwide for its iconic authors including Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf, which is why London is home to the most charming bookshops. If you are a booking enthusiast looking for something away from the digital world, bookstores in London are the right choice. 

The digital buying of books might have made your life easier but the serene atmosphere with the soothing smell of books and the calmness of the shelves always attracts you to the bookstores. For the students studying in London, the most preferable choices of bookshops are mentioned below.

Bookmongers

For the last 30 years, Bookmongers has been serving literature lovers. American-born Petrick Kelly opened a well-organized bookstore to serve almost every palate. Bookmongers is one of the most renowned bookstores for second-hand books. It is a preferable choice for the students as well. The store provides a unique atmosphere with an independent spirit. In recent years, the bookstore emerged as a meeting point with a charming and comfortable environment for students living in nearby student accommodation in United Kingdom. The best part is you can also order second-hand books from the store.

  • Address – 439 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, London, SW9 8LN
  • Contact Number – 0207 7384225
  • Opening hours – open daily 10.30 am-6.30 pm and 11 am-5 pm on Sundays

Hatchards

Hatchards is the United Kingdom’s oldest bookshop and has been serving book lovers since 1797. Walking through Piccadilly Street, you can’t neglect Hatchard’s grand entrance to old-school charm and refined aura. It is a landmark on one of the famous and refined streets of London and home to over 1 lakh books. It is divided into four floors with an impressive collection of books with a particular emphasis on travel and biography.

  • Address – 187 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9LE
  • Contact – 020 7439 9921
  • Opening hours – Open daily 9.30 am-7 pm and noon-6 pm on Sundays

Also Read: eBooks vs Printed Books: Which are better?

Foyles

Foyles is an award-winning bookstore with over 2 lakh books from world-renowned authors. With its stretch of 4 miles and 5 floors, Foyles boasts a cafe and exhibition space on its top floor. It is popular destination for students living in student accommodation in London. It is renowned in the world for its vast collection of books since 1903 when two brothers failed their civil service exam and decided to sell off their textbooks. 

  • Address – 107, Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0EB
  • Contact – 020-74375660
  • Opening hours – Open daily 9 am-8 pm and noon-6 pm on Sundays

Daunt Books

Daunt Books is an elegant and charming bookstore. It is a treasure and haven for travellers and explorers. It is renowned for its collection of guidebooks, maps, and travelogues attracting travel enthusiasts. It offers a unique experience of browsing as the books are arranged according to the country regardless of the content. The interior of the bookshop provides an inviting atmosphere with an elegant three-level back room and oak balconies. 

  • Address – 83, Marylebone High St, London, W1U 4QW
  • Contact – 020 7224 2295
  • Opening hours – Open daily 9 am-7.30 pm and 11 am-6 pm on Sundays

The Notting Hill

World-renowned bookshop, The Notting Hill is nestled on one of the most beautiful streets, Notting Hill. It emerged as one of the most popular bookshops in the world after its interior was copied in a film in 1999. That is the reason why fans of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts became visitors to the bookshop. It offers a plethora of options for travel enthusiasts and books from various genres including YA and Crime. 

  • Address – 13, Blenheim Crescent, Notting Hill, London, W11 2EE
  • Contact – +44 (0)20 7229 5260
  • Opening hours – Open daily 9 am – 7 pm 

Also Read: The Ultimate Checklist for English Speaking Books 2022!

Libreria

Libreria is a traditional bookstore renowned for its elegant interiors and unconventional shelving with mirrored walls. It is a hub for intellectually curious students with an emphasis on creativity and culture. The shelves are beautifully arranged according to themes like ‘Wanderlust’, ‘Enchantment for Disenchanted’, ‘The City, and much more. Live events like Open Mic Poetry evenings, live podcasts, and intimate dinners regularly are key attractions.

  • Address – 65 Hanbury St, London E1 5JL, United Kingdom
  • Contact – +442038183240
  • Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Saturday 10 am-6 pm and 12 pm – 6 pm on Sundays

FAQs

What are the most famous bookshops in London?

The most famous bookshops include Hatchards, Foyles, and Daunt Books.

Which bookshop has the largest selection of books in London?

Foyles is renowned worldwide for its collection of books in various genres spanning multiple floors.

Are there bookshops that offer a café or reading space?

The Wigtown Bookshop and Lutyens & Rubinstein offer elegant reading areas and cosy cafes.

The capital city offers a wide array of options for literature lovers. It doesn’t matter whether you are a seasoned reader or a bookworm, the above places have something to serve every palate.

If you are planning to study in London then Leverage Edu can provide you with the best assistance with your study abroad journey. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118. 

About Farina Khan

Farina Khan is a journalist by profession and a writer by passion. She carries over a decade of experience in Journalism and Mass Communication and worked with some renowned media organisations like Doordarshan and Zee Media. She performed numerous roles during her work tenure including reporting, anchoring, and heading output as well. Her passion for writing, combined with dedication in delivering high-quality content, drives her to excel in the dynamic field of content writing. From thought-provoking articles to SEO-friendly blog posts, or engaging website content, She is here to bring the ideas to life through words.

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