General secondhand stock and particularly gardening, natural history, farming, rural life and topography.
Margaret Baines' proud boast is "that we are not on the internet." Hence their stock of rural pursuits, hunting and horse books is way beyond the norm. Lovely but cluttered shop with treasurers all around. Chris Harte 14.04.09
What a wonderful shop. A little musty haven with ancient worn carpet and twisty stairs lined and stacked with books; some just a couple of quid and some rather more, but all browsers feel welcome. The lady who co-runs it is lovely, and says (I paraphrase) she would rather sell something a little damaged and cheap to someone who will treasure it, than sell a pristine copy to a collector-type. It's like going to somebody's house - a personal and individual feel, and I love the total lack of decor or refurbishment - it's all about the books - of which there is an excellent selection - the stock is chosen with taste. I would be heartbroken if this shop ever closed down! Anon 30.03.12
A gem of a shop! Strong in most areas especially (as Chris Harte says) hunting and rural pursuits but also travel and topography: good collection of Batsford books from the 1940s. Lady owner is a charmer and (heavens!) really interested in books. Laurence Purcell 12.04.14
Sadly, Maureen Baines who ran the shop, passed away on June 29th. I understand that Edward Baines will continue to open the shop on Saturdays only for the foreseeable future. David Siddons (Forest Books) 26.07.14
This news is a dreadful shock. I met Mrs Baines when I visited the shop for the first time in April and was bowled over by her charm, friendliness and knowledge. She will be much missed. My condolences to Mr Baines. Laurence Purcell 28.07.14
I met Mrs. Baines a number of years ago and instantly fell in love with her charm and natural ability to engage you in conversation. She was always interested in you, the customer, and got to know you and the shelves you frequented. You could not be in a hurry if you entered her bookshop, you didn't go to buy a book only but to have a chat as well. I am sorry that I did not go and see her for some weeks, and sad to discover she is now in a better place. Mrs. Baines you will be missed lots. I am sorry for you Mr. Baines, I hope you can find the time and courage to keep 'Mrs. Baine's treasure trove' open. R. J. Cook 20.09.14
I especially visited on Saturday 20th Oct to co-incide with the PBFA book fair in the town hall in the high street as this shop only opens on a Saturday. Upon entering a charming bell above the door rang and made me think that most secondhand bookshops lack those small touches today. The shop is small in area but crammed with books all categorized over 3 floors. I nearly started an avalanche coming back down the stairs as many piles of books sometimes rest in precarious spots where one cannot see so a word of warning - mind your footing! Upon reaching the top floor I found the military section surprisingly poor so no purchases made. The pleasant owner made me aware that soon his daughter is going to open the shop Wed/Thurs/Fri which I'm sure will improve things. Laurence Batchelor 23.10.18
Opening hours now: Friday 11:00-15:00, Saturday 11:00-16:00. The chap in the shop when I called (2.vii.22) was a white-haired gentleman; no daughter in sight. The Bookman 02.07.22
Still there and still with limited opening hours. The window display was interesting but I fear that the books look damp. Not what it was but then neither am I. Steven 03.01.25
Open at advertised times
Phone before travelling
Appointment necessary
Status unknown, update requested
