Secondhand and Antiquarian Bookshops in the UK and Republic of Ireland
The Graveyard
Bookshops that have closed and have been removed since January 2025.
2024 removals
Older removals (June 2021 to December 2023)
Removed 28.11.25 from North East/North Yorkshire
Bolton Abbey Bookshop/SKIPTON/Bolton Abbey Station Bolton Abbey
Bolton Abbey Bookshop
Bolton Abbey Station Bolton Abbey SKIPTON BD23 6AF
map
tel:
01756 710614
Open: 10.00 - 4.30 on days when trains operate
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On a station of the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway. "Established by John Keavey over 30 years ago – specialising in north country railway and transport books." NB: the station is "a gentle one and a half mile walk" from the Abbey.
Visited recently - no books at all to be found on the premises apart from a couple of new railway based ones in their shop. Certainly no second hand I fear. Anthony 28.11.25
Removed 22.11.25 from South West/Devon
Refurnish/SOUTH MOLTON/8/9 Barnstaple St
Refurnish
8/9 Barnstaple St SOUTH MOLTON EX36 3BQ
map
tel:
01769 573657 web 
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00
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This branch of Refurnish prices books in the same way as those in Crediton, Tiverton, Totnes and Tavistock, namely 50p each, or three for £1. Unlike Crediton, which has far more books, this store doesn't really sort them. So it's very much a "hit or miss" affair but as there is a large stock, one can be lucky. There are more books at the back of the store too and also lots of cds and dvds for sale. As with other Refurnish branches, this is a large store and worth visiting if in the area. There is customer parking at the back of the store.
I'm a big fan of the Refurnish stores, you never know what you might find in them, both book related and unrelated. Sadly, the South Molton one did not have many books, about as many as a good non-bookshop charity shop, and they looked rather tired to me when I visited last week. PaulH 19.11.25
Removed 15.11.25 from North West/Greater Manchester
Bopcap Books/MANCHESTER/The Old Police Station, 963 Stockport Road, Levenshulme
Bopcap Books
The Old Police Station, 963 Stockport Road, Levenshulme MANCHESTER M19 3NP
map
e-mail web 
Open: Thursday & Friday 11.00 - 5.00, Saturday 10.00 - 5.00, Sunday 11.00 - 4.00
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Second-hand bookshop that also sells some new books. Specialities include art, design, photography, cinema, fashion, vintage children's books, cult fiction and graphic novels. A small amount of antiquarian stock. Also ephemera (vintage posters, magazines etc). The premises are next to Levenshulme Antiques Village and close to Levenshulme railway station.
A nice little shop, with an eclectic and good-quality but rather small stock of books. A fair amount of older hardback fiction, reasonably priced in the main. Also Penguin classics (mostly £3.50) and vintage Penguins (most £2-£4, but up to £8). Quite a lot of sci-fi paperbacks (£1.50 to £3). A small but interesting stock of poetry and plays. Lots of old children's annuals, including dozens of Rupert books (1960s onwards) in good condition (£3 to £6). A large stock of Pelicans, some rarely seen (mostly £2/£3, but up to £5). The non-fiction is generally of high quality. In most sections, the second-hand books are shelved with the new. Music, art and architecture are the best sections, with some unusual titles in evidence and not too pricey. Also a small but good stock for history, cultural issues and natural history. Several dozen Observer books (£6 to £20; first editions are towards the upper end). The next-door antiques centre has nothing to offer in the way of books, by the way.
Levenshulme is an unlovely and rather deprived suburb about three miles south-east of Manchester city centre. Bus routes 191 and 192 from Manchester to Stockport pass the shop. There is also a very frequent train service from Manchester Piccadilly. Bopcap Books is less than a five-minute walk from Levenshulme railway station. You may see a surprising number of people photographing the station's unremarkable (indeed rather horrid) brick exterior, at the western entrance. Look up. The tiny side street was never officially named and now an unofficial street sign has been put up: 'The Street With No Name'. High on the wall, it has been stolen several times, but always replaced. When it's there, it draws in the tourists. Hopefully some of them proceed down Stockport Road to Bopcap Books, as if you're in the area, it's worth a visit. Booker T 23.02.25
Some bad news to report: this highly distinctive shop, which is a pleasure to visit, is closing down. Its last day at these premises will be Sunday 2nd November, although it will continue to trade online. Named by Time Out as one of the best independent shops in Manchester, Bopcap Books has been a success and was going from strength to strength.
Sadly, the owners, Ian and Suzy, have announced: "We have recently received some unexpected, sudden and serious health news which has made it impossible to carry on in our current location. This decision is not one we have taken lightly. Bopcap Books has been trading in Levenshulme in one capacity or another for some 13 years, starting off at the original Levy Market before moving into the Antiques Village, and then two years ago moving into the much bigger premises next door. During that time we have put our heart and soul into Bopcap Books, with the aim of providing the good folk of Levenshulme with the best bookshop we possibly could."
Their other shop, the Quiet Cat Bookshop in their new home town of Macclesfield, Cheshire - which opened in August and which sells only new books - is to remain open. "With illness impacting our ability to run two shops in separate areas... it makes greater sense for us to cut out the commute and consolidate operations closer to home." But the closure of Bopcap, with its small but good-quality and quirky stock, will be a real loss to the Manchester book scene. Booker T 23.10.25
Although the shop closed as planned on 2nd November, this might not be the end of the story. Owners Ian and Suzy have said that they are open to a cash sale of the entire shop stock and furnishings, with the option to include the Bopcap name and Instagram account for the right person looking to continue the shop's existence here in Levenshulme. The premises are rented on a rolling monthly basis. Anyone seeking to take it over will have to act quickly, but this is a profitable venture with a loyal customer base - the owners are relinquishing it only because of illness. Several people have apparently expressed interest. In the meantime, Bopcap is continuing to trade online. Booker T 04.11.25
Although the closure of this shop is greatly to be regretted, a phoenix has risen from the ashes. Panda's Books and Records is now operating from the premises. Bopcap Books continues to trade online. Booker T 14.11.25
Removed 13.11.25 from London/W Postcodes
Golfiana Gallery/MAYFAIR/Grays-in-the-Mews
Golfiana Gallery
Grays-in-the-Mews Davies Mews MAYFAIR W1K 5AB
map
tel:
020 7408 1239
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Golfiana, Children's and Juvenilia.
misterg points out that owner Sarah Baddiel died in 2014, and that the site has recently been bulldozed. TBG2 13.11.25
Removed 06.11.25 from Central/Worcestershire
Ian K Pugh Books/PERSHORE/40 Bridge Street
Ian K Pugh Books
40 Bridge Street PERSHORE WR10 1AT
map
tel:
01386 552681
Open: Phone before travelling.
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Established 1974. Opened Pershore 1984. Medium stock with good-quality, interesting sections on art, illustrated, antiquarian, antiques, poetry, natural history, military, children's, topography, horticulture, history. Large reserve stock in two cellars.
Everything appeared normal except he has shortened his opening hours - typically 11.00 start and earlier finishes. However, yesterday he was still not open at 11.15. Greg Howell 27.07.09
Whenever I have tried to visit this bookshop in the past two or three years, it has always been closed, no matter what time of day. If is therefore difficult to comment on the contents, although the window display looks interesting. If you are travelling any distance, you should definitely ring in advance. Geoffrey Warner 07.07.11
Rather tired stock and owner. A 'Sale 50% off' sign in the window looked as if it had been there for months. Disappointing. Mary 16.07.11
To avoid frustration phone the day before you arrive. I liked the stock, the owner, and the dog. There are very big piles of recently bought books to wade through on the floor. OWC 18.09.12
After many years of visiting when the shop was closed, I finally claimed success. I found the owner's company very much to my liking and enjoyed the banter. The quality of the books could not be faulted although they were at the top end of the market. Chris Harte 16.11.13
The shop was closed when I visited but there was a notice stating that the owner was over the road in a hotel. He happily came over and opened up. Some of the best books are at home for internet dealing and he did list those that would interest me. I hadn't visited for over a year but a lot of the stock hadn't changed. The owner is very affable and was not aware of the Book Guide and the comments made. CB 22.03.14
Large but variable quality stock. High floor stacks obscure lower shelves so be prepared to rummage. Ian was to be found in Brandy Cask Pub (very nice riverside garden and brews its own beer) over the road but quickly opened the shop and was interesting to talk to. Brian Stringer 02.10.14
Phoned twice (late morning and afternoon) on a regular Sept. Monday before driving to Pershore for the 1st time. Both times his phone just rang and rang. No divert to mobile and no answering machine. Luckily I visited Sedgeberrow and spent my pennies there - clearly, this business has lost its prime reason for being = Be Open so customers can buy some books! Laurence Batchelor 06.09.18
We're advised that this is now rarely if ever open. Ring before travelling! TBG2 27.06.21
Another one who does not answer the phone. Waste of time. Seller 23.06.22
The shop was open on Saturday at 12.00 so we had a look round. Prices and condition varied with some not priced at all. Many shelves had books piled up in front so were difficult to access. Whilst we were there the owner was sitting outside. Perhaps this is why he doesn't answer the phone as he possibly can't hear it if he makes a habit of sitting outside (weather permitting). Once again we were short of time so will go back again at some point. David 05.06.24
Shop hours are 12-4 Monday to Saturday.
Generally speaking the owner is trying to maintain them but a call ahead is wise.
Ian has not enjoyed the best of health in recent years and has taken the decision to close the business from September.
He is in the process of decamping all his stock and as a result, this already small and chaotic shop is something of a jungle. There were strong sections of 1980s politics and some literature but its a hodge podge. There are deals to be done and a discount was offered. I was grateful for my long arms to reach anywhere!
It's always a shame to see shops like this come to the end of their life. I imagine in its heyday it was WAD. Not now.
Pershore has an Oxfam, (300 books) Blue Cross (600 mainly dross) and Acorns charity sho0 (2000, mixed) There is also a small independent new bookshop. Misterg 16.08.25
Now closed. misterg 06.11.25
Removed 06.11.25 from London/N Postcodes
Barrie Marks Ltd/MUSWELL HILL/24 Church Vale
Barrie Marks Ltd
24 Church Vale MUSWELL HILL N2 9PA
map
tel:
020 8883 1919
Open: By appointment only
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The illustrated book (including children’s books) and private press. Also interested in decorative arts, ballet, and all things visual.
Barrie Marks sold most of his stock to an American dealer in 2014. He died, aged 83, in 2018. The company still exists, but is no longer actively trading in books. Booker T 06.11.25
Removed 29.10.25 from North West/Lancashire
Bookshop/HEYWOOD/Units 48 _ 49 Heywood Magic Market
The Bookshop
Units 48 & 49 Heywood Magic Market York Street HEYWOOD OL10 1LT
map
tel:
07912 077338
Open: Tuesday, Friday & Saturday 8.30 - 5.00.
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Massive range of fiction and non-fiction in paperback and hardback arranged in categories and by author. Regular clearance offers and bargains always available from 10p. General fiction paperbacks - £2 each or 3 for £5 with 50% book exchange. Heywood Market offers free raffle tickets with each purchase. The winner of the weekly draw receives £50 market vouchers.
We've been told Units 48 and 9 have been removed from the market, and can confirm that this shop has been closed for some years. TBG2 29.10.25
Removed 10.10.25 from North West/Merseyside
Liscard Book Exchange/WALLASEY/226 Liscard Road
The Liscard Book Exchange
226 Liscard Road WALLASEY CH44 5TN
map
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.00
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We are a small book shop in Wallasey, Wirral. We have a mixture of all-sorts of books and game-books in many varied conditions, some common/uncommon and rare, some new and some old and very old!
This is listed on Library Thing as "defunct" and the property is advertised with a local estate agent as to let. It looks like the bookshop has gone. Mark V 10.10.25
Removed 10.10.25 from South East/Kent
Oxford Street Books/WHITSTABLE/The Waiting Room, Station, Old Bridge Rd
Oxford Street Books
The Waiting Room, Station, Old Bridge Rd WHITSTABLE CT5 1RB
map
tel:
07513 948831 e-mail
Open: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday 9.00 - 12.00, 2.00 - 5.00
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Previously in Oxford St, now reopened in smaller premises and also known as Books In Waiting.
Nice varied stock. Most helpful owner. Will go back on a regular basis. Chris Harte 14.04.09
A little gem. The owner is, indeed, most friendly and helpful and may let you into his cellar, which contains even more books. (He hopes to expand.) History is my speciality and I found plenty of interest at reasonable prices. Geoffrey Warner 15.12.11
The cellar will apparently be open in the summer. And there is already a very extensive selection. Whitstable is definitely no clone town! Herne 30.03.12
Great to see the basement has now opened, increasing the range of material and ease of access. David Collison 14.06.12
On a return visit found the basement full of interesting items, especially on the subject of WW2. Also some good bargains in the boxes outside. Herne 15.05.13
Public car parks just behind shop, Weatherspoons next door, art deco Peter Cushing, must be seen, handy for loos and cheap food and drink. I bought about 60 books ranging in price from £1 to £35, speaking as a trade customer this is about as good as it gets in Kent, I take the rather relaxed approach of if it's a book I want for stock and it's in the same price ballpark or below what I would put it on my shelves for, then I buy it. So don't expect charity shop prices, but a good quality stock, priced to compete with the internet. My guess would be the shop contains about 20,000 books, which are on shelves, there are no great piles of unsorted books on the floor to wade through. Fiction arranged alphabetically and split into categories. Staff pleasant and easygoing, e-cigarette allowed, some chairs to sit on when browsing lower shelves. Michael Child 26.10.15
Seven years since my last review and the shop is still as good as ever. The cellar is now fully opened and contains a varied selection of titles all duly categorised. The ground floor has a pretty good antiquarian section along with much else. Well worth a visit. Chris Harte 22.06.16
Four years on from Michael Child's comments above, signed first editions of Peter Cushing's memoirs (he lived in Whitstable for 30 years) are on offer for around £125. Prices generally are reasonable in this labyrinth of small rooms on two floors. Stock is carefully ordered in categories, and neatly shelved. Strong on paperback fiction, but art and photography are disappointingly thin. Nicholas Sack 22.09.19
Stock well ordered, prices fair. All in all worth a visit if in the area. David 18.09.21
It's a great shame but this excellent second hand bookshop has been replaced by a nail bar. There more than enough nail bars already but the number of second hand bookshops is sadly continuing to decline. Their Facebook page says that Oxford Street Books is looking for new premises. John Moore 27.04.22
A slight sense of disappointment on arrival here as the current premises, which opened in 2022 on Platform 1 at Whitstable railway station (the London-bound platform), are quite compact. This is in very marked contrast to the old shop at Oxford Street, which consisted of a veritable warren of small rooms - seven, I think - on two floors. As a result, the number of books here is far smaller. In fairness, the quality is still fairly high and the shop is nicely laid out, with the stock well ordered. The fiction selection is good, although paperbacks are priced rather steeply (£3 to £5). Also some first editions, a few of which are quite scarce. As well as literary and classic fiction, there is a good range of sci-fi and horror, and a very strong crime section, including not only modern novels but also an unusually large choice of 'Golden Age' titles. A very good drama section. Children's books feature quite strongly, including many older and vintage titles, although nothing too rare was evident among these. Also a couple of shelves of Latin/Greek classical works. For non-fiction, history (including military and local), travel and cookery are among the stronger sections and there are a few desirable titles on the music, cinema, photography and art shelves. Almost all the books are in good condition (or better). The thing that lets this shop down is the pricing, which seems to have undergone a marked upward trend from the generally reasonable prices in the old shop. Most of the stock is about 20% more expensive than one might expect, alas. This, coupled with the small size of the premises, makes the new shop - which has rebranded itself as Books in Waiting - not worth a special journey from any great distance; I tacked on a trip here while on to a visit to Faversham (which is a nicer town). Booker T 30.06.24
Closed permanently in April 2025. Nicholas Sack 10.10.25
Removed 07.10.25 from Scotland/South East Scotland
Night Owl Books/EAST LINTON/1 Bridge Street
Night Owl Books
1 Bridge Street EAST LINTON EH40 3AG
map
e-mail web
Open: Thursday - Monday 11.00 - 7.00
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Independent bookshop, opened in 2022. Mainly new books, but also second-hand stock.
Still a very nice shop, but it now sells new books only. Booker T 07.10.25
Removed 06.10.25 from London/Outer
Anthony C Hall/TWICKENHAM/30 Staines Road
Anthony C Hall
30 Staines Road TWICKENHAM TW2 5AH
map
tel:
020 8898 2638, mobile 07849 929433 e-mail
Open: Friday 10.00 - 12.30 & 1.30 - 5.00 or by appointment
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Russia, Eastern Europe and general stock.
Arrived to be told they were shortly closing for lunch - do these people have any business sense? Stock quite small. Evident activity at rear of shop (assistant also going to lunch.) Very small fiction section. NWAD disappointing. Jon Morgan 11.09.12
Sign on the door says "Until further notice, shop opening times will be irregular or by appointment". On my last visit the owner said he was thinking of closing down (he said he was over 80...)I hope this is not the beginning of the end - there have been some good purchases here. Michael Ross 13.08.19
My third visit over the years yesterday, I thought Saturday around 1230 might be a good chance to find the shop open. Sadly not, one day perhaps.
Notice on the door says opening hours are now M/W/F 230-5pm. So very restricted. You are also invited to phone 0208 898 2638 or 07849 929433 outside these hours to arrange an appointment to visit. Steve Newman 24.07.22
This address, 30 Staines Road, Twickenham, was put up for sale as vacant commercial premises in circa 2024. The bookseller's ABE account now gives their address as Laleham House,
9 Woodlands Grove, Isleworth, TW7 6NS. This address is also used in their PBFA listing (as a retired member). There is no obvious indication these premises are open to the public. Mark V 06.10.25
Removed 06.10.25 from South West/Gloucestershire
Christopher Saunders /NEWNHAM-ON-SEVERN/Kingston House
Christopher Saunders
Kingston House NEWNHAM-ON-SEVERN GL14 1BB
map
tel:
01594 516030 e-mail
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00 by prior appointment only.
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A large stock of books and memorabilia on cricket and other ball sports. Catalogues published.
Chris and David have run this business for very many years from a purposeful showroom/office in the Forest of Dean though they are much more inclined to see customers at book fairs and are appointment only. They are probably world experts on cricketing books but sadly the era is coming to an end. In April they issued their last (enormous and fabulous) catalogue and in Sept 2025 are auctioning off much of their stock in a specialist sale in Cheltenham. The rest will go to Chorley's auctions in Cheltenham over the months ahead.
It's been a very good innings but the umpire has raised his finger and they're out. misterg 27.05.25
The business has closed. The final sale of remaindered stock will be at Simon Chorley's Auction House, Prinknash Abbey Park, GL4 8EX on Tuesday October 28th. misterg 06.10.25
Removed 04.10.25 from Wales/North Wales
Porth Mawr Book Cave/CAERNARFON/42 High Street
Porth Mawr Book Cave
42 High Street CAERNARFON LL55 1RH
map
tel:
01286 678010 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.00.
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Situated within the Ancient Walls of Caernarfon Castle. Vintage and New Jewellery on the Ground Floor. The Book Cave in the underground Dungeons offers an interesting cross section of Antiquarian Books.
Books are mainly to be found in the basement of this small shop. Very strong on military and espionage with a couple of rows of topography. Prices all over the place. Chris Harte 26.10.15
A small basement room down a steep and winding set of stairs. Small stock, sign mentions their mountaineering and cycling books are located in a couple of nearby outlets towards Llanberis. Graeme Rendall 15.09.18
Stopped by today but the whole shop is closed. AHowl 04.10.25
Removed 02.10.25 from Central/West Midlands
Southcart Books/WALSALL/20 Lower Hall Lane
Southcart Books
20 Lower Hall Lane WALSALL WS1 1RL
map
tel:
07528144837 e-mail web
Open: Currently online only but looking to reopen
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We have a large collection of all genres but specialise in sci-fi, horror, fantasy and comics. We offer a quick and prompt ordering service.
A second hand bookshop opening in the West Midlands should be cause for some celebration. The owners seem to be enthusiastic and did admit to having some of my interests in the cellar and agreed to get them out for a future visit. I felt that the stock was a little thin but I bought a very good original book about Birmingham that I was able to negotiate for a reasonable price. Worth a look I think. CB 09.01.15
This is developing into a good bookshop that is worth visiting. On a previous occasion I found that they were asking too much for a map that was in very poor condition, and even in good condition would not be worth what they wanted. On a subsequent visit, there was a lot more stock, including a pile of maps where I picked out three. There was some confusion about prices and the first price suggested was too high. We negotiated and I had the three maps for a fair price. Owners were keen to show me a very collectable book that they had obtained and I feel that they are keen on creating a good quality bookshop. All credit to them; to do that in the West Midlands is a challenge, to try in Walsall is beyond that. CB 02.04.15
Another visit to Southcart books, probably six months since the last visit. I was impressed with the progress they have made. The shop is tidier and better organised there have an attractive window display and any books that they have no room to display are placed in storage boxes and are brought out when you ask for a particular subject area. They have a wider range of books and I bought one interesting book for a very reasonable price. The owners are doing very well and they still seem to be enthusiastic. CB 05.11.15
I emailed them to ask if they still have a shop or if they’re just online now and their reply was “just online while we look for a new shop”. Jon R 14.08.23
This bookshop is now called Southcart Online, and there is no indication of physical premises, so it looks like it no longer qualifies for TBG. Mark V 01.10.25
Removed 01.10.25 from Wales/South Wales
NB Books/SWANSEA/Unit 26A, Swansea Market, Oxford Street
NB Books
Unit 26A, Swansea Market, Oxford Street SWANSEA SA1 3PQ
map
tel:
07813 769726 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00. Closed on bank holiday Mondays.
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Market stall selling second-hand popular fiction.
Meagre pickings at this very small stall in Swansea's indoor market. The stock is lowbrow in nature and limited in extent. Almost all of it is paperback fiction, much of it in a rather tatty state. But TBG does not exclude booksellers on the basis of quality, or lack of it. Almost all the books here fall into one of three categories: romantic fiction, historical novels and modern crime/thrillers. Some of the books are just 50p and the highest price I noted was £2.99. Nevertheless, most are not especially cheap for mass-market fiction, especially given their condition. Very few hardbacks and almost no non-fiction. After 30 years selling books here, the owner, Natalie, has grown weary, is seeking to retire and has put the business up for sale. If no buyer can be found, the stall will close.
A few stalls away, at Unit 16E/F, Swansea Christian Bookshop (same opening hours) has a very small second-hand section of books on Christian themes: the quality is reasonable and so are the prices (£1 to £5), but they number only about 100. There are no other booksellers in this large market, which - despite its very limited attractions for bibliophiles - is an uncommon survivor of a traditional type, and rather good. The market is a ten-minute walk from the railway station, but only a couple of minutes from the bus station. Booker T 12.07.25
The bookstall, here for three decades, has closed as its likeable owner, Natalie, has finally retired. Booker T 01.10.25
Removed 29.09.25 from East Anglia/Essex
Chelmsford Community Bookshop/CHELMSFORD/High Chelmer Shopping Centre
Chelmsford Community Bookshop
High Chelmer Shopping Centre 5 Market Road CHELMSFORD CM1 1XA
map
tel:
01245 265636
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A large stock of standard charity shop books plus a bit more and most at 50p. I picked up several modern paperbacks. Jon Morgan 20.11.17
A large selection of standard charity shop stock, mostly fiction, cookery, biography but good prices. Came away with a bag of recent paperback fiction. HB 08.02.20
The bookshop is now permanently closed "due to circumstances beyond our control", according to the team who ran it. The precise reasons for the closure have not been specified, but the shop's operations had recently been disrupted by repeated water leaks. Booker T 29.09.25
Removed 28.09.25 from Central/Derbyshire
Book Shop/WIRKSWORTH/Market Place
The Book Shop
Market Place WIRKSWORTH DE4 4ET
map
tel:
01629 825120 e-mail
Open: Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday 11.00 - 4.00
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A small shop, with a high-quality stock of second-hand books at competitive prices. History a speciality. Large selection of fiction. Also some antiquarian stock.
(RF Barrett late of Matlock) Smaller premises, but still well worth a call. Mike Jobbing 24.06.08
Just visited The Book Shop - tucked away in the corner of the marketplace, on the opposite corner to the library. Good stock at reasonable prices. John Hale 05.05.09
Discerning selection, particularly of 20th century literature and very moderately priced. Lost Club 16.11.09
Very reasonable prices. Proprietor very helpful and knowledgeable. Leo 20.07.11
Left feeling rather impressed - not a huge number of books on display but it was a case of quality, not quantity here. Excellent prices and a pleasant atmosphere to browse in. Graeme Rendall 22.10.12
Well WAD, this shop ticked plenty of boxes for me. The relatively small selection - I guess 4-5k is compensated for by high interest value. So much so I had to return a few days later. I will be back. Stevesan 17.05.14
Wirksworth is not on a main route and so getting there requires some effort. Having made that effort potential customers do not expect to be received with arrogance and rudeness. This is first time in over forty years of book buying that I have walked out of a shop because of the appalling attitude of the proprietor - safe to say I shall not be making a return visit. Nicholas Pendower 03.07.14
Quiet and efficient, and probably the best, most experienced book-seller in Derbyshire now that Alan Hill and Laura Crooks are no longer with us. Quality not quantity; fairly priced - and clean. Andrew Bradley 12.07.14
I always look forward to my visits. Richard is probably the most expert antiquarian dealer in the county and his stock is diverse, even if I have no idea how he can make it succeed in such a tiny shop. Charles Murray 26.07.14
An exceptional book shop. I can endorse all of the comments already made. I seldom visit but whenever I manage it I always find something. On this occasion it was a book that I have been searching for for months. The owner apologised for its poor condition and although it was better than most of the others I have seen in the past, this was by far the cheapest copy. CB 18.08.14
A really nice shop to visit. Fairly small but with no tat on the shelves. A very good all round selection of titles with local history books being very strong. Chris Harte 23.03.15
We were in the Peak district for just 2 days and made a special trip to Wirksworth only to find the shop closed despite it being 3.30. Not very impressed. David 10.06.16
Small premises but choice stock competitively priced. pleasing window display and plenty of decent books being 'moved through' at £1. shrewd proprietor still doing it for the love of books, so opening hours a bit flexible - worth phoning ahead and respecting the stock by giving it more than half an hour to browse! Only a couple of miles from Cromford's great Scarthin Books, well worth a joint visit if you've got all day. glenk 10.07.18
I was rather impressed by this little shop in the heart of a very pleasant town. Stock seemed well chosen and fairly priced. I would have spent more if time had been on my side. Wessexman 30.08.22
Had a pre-Christmas visit and whilst my primary aim was for Penguin Books, I was not disappointed by the range of titles, both in terms of age and genre. Many nooks and crannies to explore across several floors and prices reasonable. If you leave empty handed, you're not trying hard enough. The Penguin Chap 04.01.23
Another little gem, a lesson to some more well known bookshops in the county. Not a huge stock but clean and reasonably priced stock in a pretty village. WWAD Bazza 10.05.23
A small shop but I still found five books that I very happy with at giveaway prices. The lowest step to the shop from the pavement is ambitiously high, so walk along to its right side if you are unsteady on your feet. Stive 25.02.24
Easily the best bookshop visited on this trip. Books in good condition and with prices that were almost giveaway. We bought a large bagful. If you only have time to visit one bookshop whilst in Derbyshire it has to be this one. WWAD. David 13.08.24
Agree with almost all previous reviewers: this is an excellent shop and WAD. Although small, there is some real quality here, at very competitive prices. Some antiquarian stock. A very good selection of classic and literary fiction. Also plenty of crime fiction, with 'Golden Age' titles well represented. The poetry stock is good, the drama a bit less so. Very strong indeed for history, including military history, as well as topography and local interest. Also a fair amount of good quality in art, crafts, the classical world, archaeology, natural history, transport and travel/walking. Quite a few Folio Society volumes, very reasonably priced. Not good for children's books; there are a few vintage titles, but when the shop is as small as this, decisions have to be made as to what categories to specialise in. The unassuming but ETGOW proprietor, Richard Barrett, is a veteran of the book trade and very knowledgeable. Wirksworth, on the southern fringe of the Peak District, is slightly off the beaten track and is a nice little town, with some interesting buildings - and also some very steep hills. Booker T 05.09.24
Alas, this shop has closed.
I visited Wirksworth on 27th September, and it was almost entirely bare of stock. But Mr Barrett was there, tidying up before finally vacating the premises, so I could find out more and say goodbye.
The explanation is that his lease was due for renewal, and he didn't warm to the prospect of another long stint. So he has decided to retire, having thought about that intermittently over the last few years. We had a pleasant talk about this and other matters.
I bade him all the best for his retirement, and was sorry to say farewell to him. But at least there is this opportunity to salute Richard Barrett, as The Bookshop departs from this guide, as a very good man and a fine bookseller. We can say, truthfully, that Wirksworth really won't be the same without him, and neither will Derbyshire book-buying. The Bookman 28.09.25
Removed 20.09.25 from Scotland/South West Scotland
Book and Art Shop/GATEHOUSE OF FLEET/15 High Street
Book and Art Shop
15 High Street GATEHOUSE OF FLEET DG7 2HR
map
tel:
01557 814506 e-mail
Open: Monday & Wednesday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.30.
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Small stock of well chosen books in very good condition and at reasonable prices. 1920's and 30's watercolours and prints also sold. Dealing in books since 1975 and open in Gatehouse for 10 years. Please phone if coming from distance as may be away buying.
Along with Anwoth Books, this shop good reason to visit Gatehouse - its small stock focuses on the humanities and some classic fiction. Very select and prices are reasonable. Steven Kelly 22.12.14
One small room, discerning selection. Worth trying if visiting the larger bookshop at the mill. Mark V 08.08.15
Popped in today - a very small room. Art prints for sale on the wall and a few bookcases which seemed today to hold mainly fiction, which isn't really my thing. Wifey didn't find anything in her historical fiction genre either; we were in and out in a minute or so unfortunately. Flip M 09.09.22
Four shelves of fiction the rest of the shop contains Art, Hunting Shooting, Fishing, Natural History,Topography, Travel and History and good selection of Childrens books. Georgina Purse 16.09.22
Good selection of interesting books, well worth a visit. derekbluesman 17.09.22
Love this little bookshop. Always find something I want to buy! Has some lovely watercolours as well. Hellene p 04.10.22
This is a very small shop, also selling prints and paintings. A few bookshelves, probably 200 books at the most. Mainly literary fiction, also some art, travel and biography. All in excellent condition and reasonably priced but nothing to interest us and it was a very short visit. NWAD unless visiting the much larger bookshop in the mill down the road HB 20.09.25
This is a very small shop, also selling prints and paintings. A few bookshelves, probably 200 books at the most. Mainly literary fiction, also some art, travel and biography. All in excellent condition and reasonably priced but nothing to interest us and it was a very short visit. NWAD unless visiting the much larger bookshop in the mill down the road HB 20.09.25
Removed 20.09.25 from Scotland/South West Scotland
Dalbeattie Books/DALBEATTIE/65 High Street
Dalbeattie Books
65 High Street DALBEATTIE DG5 4HA
map
tel:
01556 610228 e-mail web
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10.00 - 12.45 & 2.00 -4.00, Saturday 10.00 - 1.00 & 2.00 - 5.30
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Family-run bookshop, established in 2004. Stocks new and second-hand books.
I visited here a few years ago, in the days when I was sadly oblivious to TBG’s existence. Quite an old-fashioned sort of shop, albeit in rather a good way. It adheres to the irksome habit of closing for lunch, though! At that time, the second-hand stock was fairly limited in extent, but the quality was good and the prices were on the low side. Hopefully, these latter two characteristics remain the case today. Booker T 27.02.24
This is not a secondhand bookshop, it is a small shop selling new books and greeting cards with one small shelf holding 20 sub charity shop level books (think 50 Shades of Grey and Michael Parkinson’s autobiography) NWAD and probably not worth listing on the Book Guide HB 20.09.25
Removed 10.09.25 from North West/Cheshire
Magpie Books/MALPAS/3 The Cross, Church Street
Magpie Books
3 The Cross, Church Street MALPAS SY14 8NU
map
tel:
01948 861680 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Friday 10.00 - 5.00, Saturday 10.00 - 4.00
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Small shop with a varied second-hand stock, as well as new books.
Magpie Books was set up in 2022 by the poet and novelist Sian Hughes and her sister Ellen. The shop is quite small, but second-hand books make up a fair proportion of the stock. Children's books are an important speciality. Although closed for redecorating and renovation for much of the early part of this year, the shop reopened a few days ago. Malpas is a village in the south of Cheshire, near the borders with Shropshire and Wales. It is served by the 41 bus route (Chester-Whitchurch), which runs every two hours. Booker T 12.03.25
Closed down. Refitting as a florists in progress when I arrived. Stive 10.09.25
Removed 02.09.25 from North West/Greater Manchester
Book Exchange/STOCKPORT/Unit 20, Stockport Market, Market Place
The Book Exchange
Unit 20, Stockport Market, Market Place STOCKPORT SK1 1EU
map
tel:
07973 786683 web
Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday 9.00 - 4.30
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Medium large stall in the market hall in Stockport, probably about the size of a small shop, generally romance and thrillers. New and as-new for half price or less. Also jigsaws. Card and cash accepted.
User musreader has told us this has closed and the owner Nick confirms it. He is opening a shop in Todmorden in the next few weeks. TBG2 02.09.25
Removed 31.08.25 from North West/Cheshire
JPs Box of Books/RUNCORN/The Box
JPs Box of Books
The Box Runcorn Shopping City RUNCORN WA7 2EU
map
tel:
07780 097595 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00.
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A large selection of secondhand and antiquarian books - military, history, art, travel, sport, novels, biographies, children, show biz and film, transport, poetry, all at very competitive prices. This is a new business, café and free parking, we also have a selection of work by local artists.
Great little book shop with a various collection of books all good prices well worth a visit Angrwin 23.04.24
Closed down 2-3 weeks ago. Stive 30.08.25
Removed 14.08.25 from South East/East Sussex
Rye Old Books/RYE/7 Lion Street
Rye Old Books
7 Lion Street RYE TN31 7LB
map
tel:
01797 225410 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.00 (Phone to confirm in winter. Shop closes for annual holidays.)
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General stock, something for everyone, from 50 pence to £3000. Childrens' illustrated, fine bindings, Irish interest literature. Our thirteenth year in business. We search for books at the most competitive price. We post to all corners of the earth.
A very brusque unwelcoming attitude to an opening simple query. Was made to feel totally unwanted. Asked two friends to go in, five minutes apart, each came out with the same feeling. Why go into a bookshop which doesn't want you in it. Chris Harte 27.06.09
Still the same unwelcoming attitude three years on and by the look of all the dust still the same stock! Tikit 12.07.12
Rubbery Legs. 1/10. The Boxer 17.09.13
A laughably rude proprietor: I asked her to show me the Visual Arts section, and she snorted and declared: "ALL arts are visual." (Not true; literary and performing arts are two categories.) Dull old stock. Rye deserves better than this. Nicholas Sack 29.07.14
A shame you haven't had the good experience I have always had in this bookshop the proprietor is a knowledgeable bookseller with whom I have enjoyed wonderfully engaging conversations (just this week as a matter of fact). Jen Lindsay 30.08.14
Very pleasant reception (friendly and knowledgeable conversation with me and the customer before me), nice general stock. Alex Johnson 26.04.19
Picturesque premises but the shelves are thinly populated and much of the stock has a dejected appearance. Pop in if you're visiting Rye but NWAD. Laurence Purcell 23.09.23
Rye Old Books has closed down. The owner, Aoife Coleman, was experiencing serious ill-health and decided to retire. The premises are now home to Grounded, a coffee shop - a very good one, in fact, but still a real shame that nobody could be found to take over the bookshop. Booker T 11.08.25
Removed 08.08.25 from Southern/Hampshire
Oxfam Books _ Music /FAREHAM/182 West Street
Oxfam Books & Music
182 West Street FAREHAM PO16 0EQ
map
tel:
01329 286531 e-mail web
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The shop closed down on Christmas Eve 2024, with surprisingly little protest from its volunteers or from the townsfolk of Fareham. Booker T 08.08.25
Removed 29.07.25 from South West/Devon
T A S S Charity Shop /TAVISTOCK/24 Market Street
T A S S Charity Shop
24 Market Street TAVISTOCK PL19 0DD
map
tel:
01822 616958 web
Open: Thursday - Saturday 10.00 - 2.00.
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Bookroom at the back of a general charity shop
At least as interesting as the local Oxfam bookshop. Malcolm Parker 19.08.17
Slightly better than Oxfam. Picked up a couple of titles and will visit again when in the town. Chris Harte 12.10.17
Closed since summer 2019 due to water leak. No sign of it opening any time soon PLF 19.10.19
Told yesterday (in the general TASS charity shop) that the bookshop will be opening in a new location sometime in the New Year. David Pike 03.01.20
Books are now confined to a back room in a general charity shop at 24 Market Street (do not confuse with the old shop in Barley Market Street which is a different road) PLF 27.07.21
This shop has been closed for several months due to storm damage but is due to re-open shortly. Strongly advise ringing before visiting. PLF 23.04.25
This shop is now permanently closed: https://tasstavistock.org.uk/shop/ PLF 29.07.25
Removed 22.07.25 from Northern Ireland/Co. Londonderry
War on Want NI/COLERAINE/32 Railway Road
War on Want NI
32 Railway Road COLERAINE BT52 1PE
map
tel:
028 7035 3876 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.00.
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Secondhand charity bookshop with books and bric a brac
Self Help Africa closed the last nine of its former War on Want NI shops in June, including both its Belfast bookshops. The Coleraine shop was one of four that had closed earlier. Booker T 22.07.25
Removed 22.07.25 from Northern Ireland/Belfast
War on Want NI/BELFAST/370-374 Upper Newtownards Road
War on Want NI
370-374 Upper Newtownards Road BELFAST BT4 3DY
map
tel:
028 9067 3350 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 4.30.
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Secondhand charity bookshop specialising in antiquarian and irish books. Also stocks books on religion, biographies, hobbies, travel, geography, history, horror and sci-fi as well as paperback novels and childrens' books.
The shop closed in June. The charity Self Help Africa (which had absorbed War on Want NI) has withdrawn from all retailing in Northern Ireland. Booker T 22.07.25
Removed 22.07.25 from Northern Ireland/Belfast
War on Want NI/BELFAST/24 Botanic Avenue
War on Want NI
24 Botanic Avenue BELFAST BT7 1JQ
map
tel:
028 9024 7773 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 4.30.
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Secondhand charity bookshop specialising in antiquarian and irish books. Also stocks books on religion, biographies, hobbies, travel, geography, history, horror and sci-fi as well as paperback novels and childrens' books.
Run by large team of very friendly volunteers who each work on different days. Very wide selection of second hand books including unusual items. Prices are very, very cheap, some spectacular bargains. Aidan O'loan
Beside Botanic Railway station this small to medium sized charity bookshop looks for all the world like a normal secondhand bookshop. Set in the university area of Belfast it has a higher than usual percentage of reference books, but retains the variety of other book types. Busy yet welcoming, it is worth the walk from the city centre. Jeremy Briggs 27.03.08
Across the road from the Botanic Road Oxfam. The stock is smaller than Oxfam's but similar in character. Prices are as cheap but not as predictable as Oxfam. Gary 08.07.22
The charity Self Help Africa, which merged with War on Want NI a few years ago and had rebranded all of its shops under the Self Help Africa name, has recently pulled out of its retail operations in Northern Ireland. All nine of its remaining NI shops have closed in the past few weeks - this shop was one of the last to shut, on June 28th. The charity has explained its decision: "Since the pandemic, we have struggled to return our shops to the profitability of the past. They require a level of investment that the organisation is not in a position to provide."
Self Help Africa retains ten shops in the Republic of Ireland, which between them generated £746,000 in income in the last financial year. There are no bookshops among those, although some have a fair-sized selection of books. Booker T 22.07.25
Removed 18.07.25 from Southern/Dorset
Books Afloat/WEYMOUTH/66 Park Street
Books Afloat
66 Park Street WEYMOUTH DT4 7DE
map
tel:
01305 779774
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00
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Good general stock on two floors whilst specialising in maritime and naval subjects, very much cover all subjects so something for everybody! Also genuine nautical antiques, ships bells ,models, die cast toys, clockwork trains, old postcards,paintings etc. Park Street is directly opposite Weymouth Railway Station and very handy for the town and harbour and beach.
Worth visiting even if you have no interest in their specialities. TBG
Good stock of most transport areas at reasonable prices. Friendly and knowledgeable owner. I am a regular visitor, new stock often available. Paul Simpson. 15.11.10
Wonderful bookshop, with excellent selections of naval, maritime, yachting and local interest new & secondhand books, also ship models & memorabilia. Shop very close to railway station. Well worth a visit. Mark Barrett 12.04.11
What a wonderful place that is! Splendid second hand bookshop. I wish I would live closer to this place, alas! I´don´t. Maybe it´s for the better. If I could return, like I would, I´d bring a lorry. Ralf 18.07.11
Unbeatable for marine but also good on topography and fiction. Herne 20.07.11
Excellent bookshop. Good selection of railway books, local memorabilia and fiction in addition to nautical books. Intended just to pop in but spent an hour browsing and buying. Helpful, friendly owner and certainly recommend a visit. Steve Brissle 29.07.13
Excellent shop over two floors - reasonable prices. Have certainly had some bargains there over the years. Parking nearby as well as railway station. Well worth a detour. The Drifter 22.08.13
With its bow-fronted upper floor, close-packed shelves, and marine curiosities hanging in every available inch, the first impression is almost Dickensian. But quirkiness aside, its affable owner runs a tight ship. Everything's well-organised and there are finds to be had. Local history and literature are a specialism: for example, I discovered rare titles by West Country-related authors John Cowper Powys and T.F. Powys. Perfect when you've had enough of the beach. Paul O 29.08.14
Little gems take finding, this is a gem. Unique shop, great stock. Helpful owner. Bazza 22.02.18
Good old fashioned traditional bookshop with helpful owner. Stock well displayed and reasonably priced. Recommended. Steve Newman 08.09.21
The description of this shop remains completely accurate and I was really pleased to find that it has survived the pandemic. There is an amazing stock of books downstairs, and while the nautical theme is very well represented, there is plenty of variety too. Upstairs is crammed with shipping memorabilia, with many items of museum quality. The helpful owner pointed out several items I had missed, and I left with several purchases. Thoroughly recommended. Wessexman 21.04.22
I completely agree with the previous comments. Absolutely brilliant shop. Came away with a large bagful and got a discount. WWAD. David 20.04.23
Agree with above. Found a long sought item in the waterways section! Herne 18.07.23
Ahoy! All the previous reviews of this shop are complimentary and so is mine. If you're interested in nautical matters then you'll be like a kid in a sweetshop here as there's a wide range of nautical books as well as many models and memorabilia. Most other non-fiction subjects are well-represented, including many on Thomas Hardy (being in Dorset, of course). There's a well-stocked paperback fiction room at the rear of the shop and upstairs there is an extensive range of quality hardback fiction. The shop is a bit cramped in places, but I won't hold that against it as I'd rather have more stock to browse than uncluttered aisles. I found prices to be on the whole very reasonable. It's a stone's throw from the train station so getting there is easy. Jon R 04.02.25
Dreadful shock when I went there yesterday. article Malcolm 18.07.25
Removed 14.07.25 from Central/Hertfordshire
Home and Colonial Antiques and Inspiration/BERKHAMSTED/134 High Street
Home and Colonial Antiques and Inspiration
134 High Street BERKHAMSTED HP4 3AT
map
tel:
01442 877007 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 10.00 - 4.30, Saturday 9.30 - 5.00, Sunday & Bank Holidays 10.00 - 4.00
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Some books scattered around the four floors of this centre but most are to be found in the basement. Stock tends to be typical antique centre with, at a guess, one book fairy using it as a base. Not WAD but worth a look if you are in town. Steven Whitehead 19.03.13
Visited today - only book stock was in the basement, nothing elsewhere, and that was limited to 3 bookcases. Stock was pretty generalist but antiquarian, rather then "charity shop second hand". Worth popping in if you're around the area but NWAD and the prices were not particularly cheap (the prices in the rest of the shop reminded me of that Harry Enfield "I saw you coming..." sketch). Nice cafe on the top floor. Flip M 13.07.17
Some books in the basement. Not a lot and nothing special but you never know so it is worth a look - and it won't take you long. Probably a better bet than any of the charity shops in town, with the exception of Oxfam Books and Music. Steven 11.07.22
Closed since Christmas for refurbishment. A notice on site mentions a reopening date of “early spring”. However, the work appears to be some way from completion, with slippage in the timescale now seeming highly likely. Booker T 30.03.24
The premises reopened on 26th April after a four-month closure for renovation. No idea how extensive the book stock now is, but there is apparently one bookseller, Richard Frost, among the two dozen retailers here, and a few of the others who deal in "collectables" may also have some books for sale. Booker T 25.06.24
Home & Colonial has lost the two upper floors (including the rather wonderful tea room at the top) and is now an art gallery with some antiques and not one single book. Steven 14.07.25
Removed 11.07.25 from North East/North Yorkshire
Grove Rare Books/SKIPTON/The Old Post OfficeBolton Abbey
Grove Rare Books
The Old Post Office Bolton Abbey SKIPTON BD23 6EX
map
tel:
01756 710717 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
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A country bookshop in an 18th Century building the on Duke of Devonshire's Yorkshire estate, within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. A wide range of books, but particularly, Yorkshire topography, angling and field sports, art and architecture, British topography, and natural history. Also antiquarian maps and prints.
This bookshop just oozes class and quality. It is one of the finest of its genre and MUST be visited by any serious collector. Both the owner and his son were knowledgable and very pleasant men. The Yorkshire holdings were top of the range as were the field sports section. There were other groupings none of which were anything but worthy of perusal. Chris Harte 26.10.09
A superb bookshop, but not the place to buy a cheap paperback! Quality second hand books on a wide range of topics. On entering the shop you are instantly made welcome, and under no pressure to buy ... and what a beautiful building and setting. Nigel Baker 10.06.17
A beautifully located book cottage in this honeypot rural tourist destination. A long established and reputable PBFA seller has curated a large and really excellent selection of quality collectable books. Attractively laid out and focussing on the traditional & time worn collecting areas. Don't look for modern paperbacks, shelf-fillers & bodice-rippers here. A very polite welcome too. A sense that the shop hours may not entirely be cast in stone though. This seller attends book fairs so maybe check first. The prices were not eye-brow lifting either. Worth a visit & combined with the delights of Bolton Abbey & the nearby Devonshire Arms it's a no brainer. SaltaireTom 01.08.23
Very sadly, this shop closed on 31 May. For the video, see @groverarebooks on Instagram - post of 31 May 2025. Francis Freeman 11.07.25
Removed 09.07.25 from North West/Cumbria
Kirkland Books/KENDAL/The Antiques Emporium
Kirkland Books
The Antiques Emporium Unit 8 Dockray Hall Mill KENDAL LA9 4RU
map
tel:
0800 8806248 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 10.00 - 5.00.
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Specialising in the history and topography of Cumberland and Westmorland, Alfred Wainwright, Arthur Ransome, mountaineering and railways, plus a general stock. Collectable books over 3 floors with nearby parking. Fine condition collectable books bought for excellent prices, especially within our specialisms.
A small shop, but exceptionally well presented and all collectable high quality stock, with perhaps and even better website. Mike Baum 30.10.10
No sign of books over three floors. One room, and I did ask about reserve stock,but good quality and a good web site. Corso 22.03.14
Entry moved to this address in 2015. TBG 18.11.15
Visited new shop - actually a small Unit within an antique centre in an industrial area with extremely difficult parking! Outstanding for Wainwright, Ransome, Lake District, top end excellent collectables with prices to match. Worth a look in those subjects but beware mad white van drivers in the area! Norman Davies 29.04.16
Gone. Unit 8 now antiques only. The antiques centre generally has 2 or 3 small bookcases but not really enough to count. Mark V 09.07.25
Removed 07.07.25 from London/WC & EC Postcodes
Tindley and Everett/CHARING CROSS/4 Cecil Court
Tindley and Everett
4 Cecil Court CHARING CROSS WC2N 4HE
map
tel:
020 7240 2161
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.00.
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Twentieth Century first editions and architecture. PBFA member.
Good selection of modern firsts. Elastic pricing - no bargains but fair prices for good condition uncommon books. Owner is colourful character who will offer modest discount if issue is raised delicately. Loyola 24.04.10
Another Cecil Court high end shop, another one (like Bryars and Bryars across the way) with a friendly proprietor. This is no place to come looking for bargains but be sure to visit the fascinating and extensive basement where all kinds of interesting-looking books are (I assume) awaiting their day of promotion upstairs. Laurence Purcell 20.11.21
Located in the delightful Cecil Court, this shop has a good selection of classic and modern fiction with many first editions at prices mostly beyond the depths of my pockets. A few Folio Societies lurking on the shelves. Jon R 24.08.23
probably around 3000 volumes, almost all post war literature 90% of which are at prices from £30-£50. I imagine that if you wanted a runner up from the Booker prize in 1975 they may well have it. Delightful old shop but nothing that overly jumped out out me misterg 09.06.25
Alas, closed on 30 June 2025 after over 30 years here. They will continue to trade online and at book fairs. The premises will become a new gallery for Darnley Fine Arts. Mark V 07.07.25
Removed 06.07.25 from South West/Devon
Lee Furneaux/TAVISTOCK/Tavistock Pannier Market
Lee Furneaux
Tavistock Pannier Market TAVISTOCK PL19 0AU
map
tel:
01822 853243 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9.00 - 4.00
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Their eclectic bookshop is located in the far corner at the west end of the market. Subjects of special interest include Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley, military history, maritime, art, literature and children's books
They always have interesting and well-priced titles in stock. Tim Hall 23.12.11
This might just be a stall in a high quality market but, my goodness, what a super selection of hard to obtain titles. A knowledgable and friendly owner saw her busy during both of my visits. Rumour had it that the best of a recently purchased collection will soon see the light of day. Chris Harte 20.03.12
I'm always pleased to visit when in Tavistock. A good selection of titles with many 'wants' purchased this time. Prices are very reasonable and the owner's knowledge of books excellent. Chris Harte 12.10.17
Based in a corner of the town's Pannier Market there is much to interest those whose subjects are local history and military matters. Plenty of fiction. Chris 24.02.23
We're told that Lee Furneaux's stall has closed. They may be there in future but only occasionally. Article TBG2 06.07.25
Removed 23.06.25 from North East/West Yorkshire
Chevin Books/OTLEY/1 Bay Horse Court
Chevin Books
1 Bay Horse Court OTLEY LS21 1SB
map
tel:
01943 466599 e-mail
Open: Generally open for a few hours on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from about 10.00. Closing times vary between 1.30 and 3.00
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CLOSING DOWN, all stock 50% off
Stock includes art, history, military, sport and topography.
Never seem to have in stock any books of my wide interests. Chris Harte 14.04.09
Small pleasant bookshop, and, interestingly, usually has the books I'm looking for. Don Vine 20.12.10
Good selection. Hard to beat on price too. Jon Davis 28.08.12
Good selection and fair prices. Pleasant and helpful staff. I rarely leave without a purchase, and never regret it. Twizzle 10.01.13
Visited this shop today, bought 2 books and intend to go back. This is a serious 2nd hand bookshop with mostly hardback books. Reasonable prices too. I spoke with a member of staff who was not only very friendly and helpful but clearly bookish and knowledgable. Nick 18.05.18
Over ten years since my last report and since then a change of address. The shop had a lot of potential but the boxes piled high made viewing very difficult. A spring clean is very much in order. However, the owner was a most pleasant fellow who seemed baffled as how to cope with such a large stock in a small building. Chris Harte 03.09.19
Stunning first visit on Saturday, had to leave books behind as I couldn't carry everything. Pleasant owner, great advice on going through some of the boxes of stored books and excellent price. Well worth a visit, will be back! Anthony 02.11.22
Another splendid visit, great chat with the owner and some worthwhile purchases. Never seen so many Shire Albums for sale before, and all at £2 each. Amazing stuff and once again, good to see a bricks and mortar shop doing so well. A bit chaotic with post book fair boxes everywhere, but added to the joy of the hunt! Anthony 07.11.23
Visited on Monday 23 Sep 2024 . Unfortunately the shop was closed due to health issues and opening reduced to occasionally and when he is able. Bill B 25.09.24
Visited on Thursday last. A note in the window said "Closing Down Sale - 50% off all books". Sadly for me but good for my wallet in that the shop was closed. Ring before visiting. Sad to see another go. Anthony 04.11.24
Following on from Anthony's recent comment, this long-established shop is closing because the owner, Simon, is seriously ill. It is not clear how long it will remain open. The aim now is to reduce the stock and also bring in a bit of money for his family. To this end, the shop is being staffed on a part-time basis, occasionally by the owner's wife (who has rather a lot to contend with right now, and also a small business of her own), but mostly by relatives and friends who are keen to help out. Opening times are therefore rather variable, but the shop has been opening a few days a week - usually Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays - from about 10am for a few hours, closing at times that have varied between 1.30pm and 3pm. Cash payments are preferred now, in order to reduce card fees. I have not been here for a few years, but I remember it as a nice shop, albeit rather cluttered, with a lot of stock, and a good selection of books on military history, aviation, shipping, sport, and also cross-stitch and other types of needlework. Booker T 11.11.24
I visited a couple of weeks ago and bought some lovely books at half price. Please do support Simon and his family. You will get a bargain. loyola 17.11.24
As previously posted, the shop is closing down as the owner is very ill. It is being staffed on a rota basis by friends and family members in order to sell some of the (very substantial) stock before it shuts its doors. The plan is to retain the shop for as long as possible and it is expected to continue to operate during the early months of 2025. The remaining stock will then be sold to dealers or auctioned off; the premises will not remain a bookshop as other plans have been made for their use. The shop is WWAD as the stock - predominantly hardbacks in good condition - is of a high standard. The prices were reasonable to begin with, but the 50% reductions mean that bargains abound. Prospective visitors should be aware that there is little fiction here. There is a poetry section - extensive and of good quality - but non-fiction is very much the speciality. The stock in many subject categories is good, but it is outstanding for history of all periods, military (including aviation and naval), UK topography, Yorkshire interest, sport, art and architecture. The biography section is very large and of outstanding quality. Very good also for natural history, hobbies/crafts (especially needlework, quilting etc), transport (all branches), music, gardening, religion, mountaineering, canals/rivers and polar exploration. Cash payments are preferred, but cards are accepted. Bay Horse Court is right in the town centre, about a three-minute walk from the bus station, but is tucked away and quite difficult to find. Walk up Crossgate and Wesley Street, turn left and watch out for the entrance to the yard, just before the junction with Bridge Street. The closure of this shop, when that day comes, will be a real loss to the second-hand book trade in Yorkshire. Get there while you can. Booker T 15.12.24
Very sadly, the likeable and well-respected owner of this shop, Simon, died earlier this month, many years before his time. After trading in Otley for 25 years, Chevin Books - which is now open for a few hours (typically 10am to 3pm) on three days a week - will be shutting its doors for the last time on Saturday 24th May. All books will be sold at 50% off their marked price until the shop closes. Booker T 24.04.25
As this fine shop nears the end of its days - it is expected to close later this month, probably on 24th May - the upstairs room has been opened up to the public, in addition to the usual ground-floor retail space. The late owner's widow points out that there are huge numbers of history books available, including some exceptional medieval history. All books are half-price in the closing down sale. Cash payments preferred, and please bring your own bags if possible. Booker T 16.05.25
The half-price closing down sale continues and the shop will be open on Friday 23rd, Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May from 10am to 3pm each day. The shop will then close for a week. In early June a decision will be made on how to clear the remaining stock. It is not yet evident whether that may involve the shop reopening for a brief period. Booker T 23.05.25
The gradual close-down continues. The shop is now in clearance mode. Bring a carrier bag and fill it with books for £10. In this latest phase, the shop is open each day from 10am to 3pm up to and including Saturday 14th June. Booker T 10.06.25
The shop has finally closed, and West Yorkshire's second-hand book scene is much the poorer as a result. Rachel, the late owner's widow, is now disposing of the remaining stock by offering it to charities and similar organisations. Booker T 23.06.25
Removed 23.06.25 from South West/Devon
Cornerstone Books/PLYMOUTH/Antiques Centre27 New StreetThe Barbican
Cornerstone Books
Antiques Centre 27 New Street The Barbican PLYMOUTH PL1 2NB
map
tel:
07471943032
Open: Probably a zombie bookshop - see latest review.
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Over 40,000 good quality, mainly hardback books covering almost every subject.
A mountainous stock of mostly hardback books covering almost every subject. Don't forget to take your crampons. TBG
Impressive muddle. Nothing of too much value but the odd treasure to be found. If you are scared of climbing too high then stick to the lower shelves. Chris Harte 20.03.12
Piles of books, few of real interest but worth a visit all the same. SteveBrissle 06.08.13
orth a cricked neck if you are interested in politics books - this is an excellent place. Norman Davies 26.09.13
The owner was doing his crossword upon entering and was immediately helpful. The naval stock was just 1 small bookcase, but many of the other subjects were stacked with huge piles up to the ceiling. Pricing seemed reasonable and I expect this is the type of place, where if one was local and visited every month, occasionally gems would be unearthed, but I came away empty handed. Laurence Batchelor 03.01.15
Certainly lots of books at pretty reasonable prices. Situated in an interesting Centre. Steve Marshall 17.10.16
Not open at 10-50 on Saturday 9th March 2019. A shame as it was a pleasant spring morning with lots of potential customers passing by. Steven 24.03.19
Closed on a Wednesday morning. Found a phone number for the new owner who said that she has no idea about when, or if, the stall will reopen due to "family problems." Chris Harte 26.04.19
Closed on the Wed in August I arrived. Girl in the cafe at the entrance said this place had not been open since November 2018! All the books are there but sadly no chance to view or know when it will be open again. Laurence Batchelor 29.08.19
Still no sign of life here today! Wessexman 25.05.23
No longer here, another dealer told me they'd left 4-5 years ago. There is another dealer with perhaps 1000 general house clearance volumes at £1 and 50 odd modern biographies at £3 misterg 16.04.25
As previously noted by others, this shop has closed down. The owner has retired and has no plans to reopen it. Booker T 23.06.25
Removed 13.06.25 from South West/Gloucestershire
Woodchester Park (NT)/NAILSWORTH/Tinkley Gate Tinkley Lane near
Woodchester Park (NT)
Tinkley Gate Tinkley Lane near NAILSWORTH GL10 3UH
map
tel:
01453 860037 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 10.00 - 4.30
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This was added pending further info from misterg - which is that there are hardly any books and not worth listing here. TBG2 13.06.25
Removed 09.06.25 from Scotland/Scottish Highlands
In the City Café and Bookshop (Highland Hospice)/INVERNESS/Units 2-3, Eastgate Shopping Centre
In the City Café and Bookshop (Highland Hospice)
Units 2-3, Eastgate Shopping Centre INVERNESS IV2 3PP
map
tel:
01463 226867 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 4.00
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Highland Hospice café which, since late 2024, has incorporated a second-hand bookshop. General stock, predominantly paperback fiction.
Situated on the ground floor of the Eastgate Shopping Centre, a stone's throw from the bus and railway stations, the premises reopened after a short closure for refurbishment in October. Part of that work was to install bookshelves, as it is now a bookshop as well as a café. There are more than 1,000 books in stock, priced at between £2 and £5. The first few weeks of trading have apparently been very brisk, with a lot of books sold. The layout is good, as access to the books is not obstructed by tables. Booker T 11.11.24
There are about half a dozen full height bookshelves along the back wall of this cafe/bookshop. There’s one table near the shelves but it doesn’t impede browsing too much. I’d say about 80% of the stock here is popular fiction, mostly paperbacks generally priced at £2. The hardbacks tend to be on the bottom shelves (I do wish bookshops wouldn’t push low-lying books right to the back of the shelves - it requires much more stooping down to view). There were a surprising number of literary fiction titles here, including several Booker Prize titles I spotted. There were also some orange Penguins along with other classic paperbacks, and a few shelves of random non-fiction titles. Worth popping in if you happen to be passing through Inverness. Jon R 10.12.24
Sadly, the café and bookshop closed down in late May. The rent turned out to be too high to make this venture viable, so the Highland Hospice pulled the plug on it. The charity's shop in nearby Falcon Square, however, now carries a good selection of books. Booker T 09.06.25
Removed 07.06.25 from North East/Tyne And Wear
Bransdown Books/TYNEMOUTH/Tynemouth Market
Bransdown Books
Tynemouth Market Platform 2 TYNEMOUTH NE30 4RE
map
tel:
07956 608599 e-mail web
Open: Saturday & Sunday 9.30 - 3.30.
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Specialists in collectable 20th century children's books, but with a reasonable general stock alongside, both fiction and non-fiction. Also have private premises open by appointment only.
Better general stock though and the owner Jennifer Copping's father was in charge on Saturday 12 July. Managed to find a good value book about the architecture of London's railway stations. I'll certainly try and visit there more often. One of the wall's now has a large attractive Penguin painting Chris K 18.07.14
Moved from Green Ginger Shopping Arcade to Tynemouth Market. TBG 18.12.14
From Mark V. Bransdown Books no longer attends Tynemouth Market, but other bookstalls do. Awaiting update. TBG2 28.05.25
Removed 31.05.25 from London/W Postcodes
Charles Vernon-Hunt/NOTTING HILL/Units 21-2, Admiral Vernon Arcade, 147 Portobello Road
Charles Vernon-Hunt
Units 21-2, Admiral Vernon Arcade, 147 Portobello Road NOTTING HILL W11 2DY
map
tel:
020 8854 1588 e-mail
Open: Saturday 9.00 - 4.00
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Non-Western art reference books exclusively. African, Oceanic, Indian, Islamic, China, Japan and Antiquities. Contact before visiting as location may change.
Charles Vernon-Hunt is now only online, on abebooks. TBG2 31.05.25
Removed 30.05.25 from South West/Bristol
Book Stalls/BRISTOL/Harbourside Market
Book Stalls
Harbourside Market Bordeaux Quay BRISTOL BS1 5UH
map
web
Open: Saturday & Sunday 11.00 - 4.00.
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I came across 2 fantastic book stalls at the Harbourside Market. One directly opposite the no.1 Harbourside restaurant is one of the best stalls I've ever seen. full of cult fiction, beat lit, classics, sci-fi, etc. The other stall featured an unusual very eclectic range covering many quirky subjects. I'm amazed that this market was not publicised but will certainly get my regular attention now. Brautigan 03.07.13
What a knockout. 9/10. The Boxer 17.09.13
This is what Keda Breeze wrote about my bookstall on the Bristol Culture website: "Theres a book stall that is always at the harbourside market. He sells wonderful books and I love taking trips there. Even better he seems to have lots of old ones that have the nice old vintage covers, which are great for slightly pretentious people like me to have on display at home!" Keith Simmonds 01.02.14
Great to see that the book stalls are going strong - friendly atmosphere and wide range of interesting and unusual books - modern and vintage. Good value and quality. Well worth a visit. Mo H 19.11.14
Couldn't see any sign of these on a recent Saturday. Still going? Lost Club 08.04.17
Still says 'books' on their website. tbg 08.04.17
With regard to the comment by "Lost Club" as to there not being bookstalls at the Harbourside Market they were, as their sobriquet suggests, clearly "lost". I imagine they visited the Flea Market in Corn Street (which has no bookstalls) instead of The Harbourside Market, half a mile away, which features at least three good sized bookstalls every Saturday and Sunday. There is a bookstall either end of the market on Bordeaux Quay and my one, Harbourside Books (formerly Bristol Books), directly opposite No 1 Harbourside Restaurant/bar. Had they actually visited the Harbourside Market they would have been hard pressed to miss the bookstalls! Keith Simmonds 18.04.17
I walked up and down the Harbourside Market on a Sunday afternoon but didn’t see any book stalls. I was stood outside the No.1 Harbourside Restaurant mentioned by a couple of other reviewers but the only stalls around were serving food. I note the last review was nearly eight years ago and the facebook page hasn’t had any posts for five years so I think this may be a thing of the past. Jon R 05.01.25
As in the previous comment, I couldn't find book stalls here when I visited a while ago.
The company that run this now actually brand it as 'The Harbourside Street Food Market', and list the traders, all of which are for food (https://www.buoyevents.co.uk/markets/). It looks like there are no longer any book stalls. Mark V 30.05.25
Removed 27.05.25 from North East/Tyne And Wear
Wayne the Book Guy/NORTH SHIELDS/24 Prudhoe Street
Wayne the Book Guy
24 Prudhoe Street NORTH SHIELDS NE29 6QX
map
tel:
07760 251278 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 4.00.
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Second hand, loved books and collectables. Both fiction and non fiction. All genres and tastes. Now moved to the Wilbury Inn Cafe. Enjoy a cuppa with your book!
The cafe where this bookshop moved to is closed. TBG 27.05.25
Removed 24.05.25 from South West/Gloucestershire
Cirencester Antiques Market/CIRENCESTER/The Corn HallMarket Place
Cirencester Antiques Market
The Corn Hall Market Place CIRENCESTER GL7 2NW
map
tel:
0171 263 6010 web
Open: Friday 9.00 - 3.00
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Two stalls offering general secondhand books, sometimes more.
Reasonable range of books particularly subjects mentioned. Seemed rather pricey. Norman Davies 05.08.13
Quite limited choice and prices on the high side. We did buy a rather nice figure of Shakespeare from one of the other units though. Worth checking out if I'm the area. David 15.02.20
Very interesting selection of 19th and early 20th century books. I bought 2 and got a discount. Would always visit if in the area. Like a miniature version of Cornell Books of Tewkesbury really. The dealer is Mathew Nutt with several other outlets and an exhibitor at many book fairs. See https://www.matthewnutt.com Biblioshelf 16.02.24
Though visiting on a Friday, I could not find any bookstalls in the Corn Hall. I did find Matthew Nutt's holding across the road in the Cirencester Antiques Centre at 25 Market Place and wonder if there has been some confusion here. Laurence Purcell 22.06.24
There is nothing of interest in The Corn Hall Market antiques fair. One dealer had 2 books, 1 had maybe 40 and some old magazines. Not to be confused with the Antiques Centre across the road. misterg 23.05.25
Removed 19.05.25 from Southern/Berkshire
Oxfam Bookshop/READING/8 High Street
Oxfam Bookshop
8 High Street READING RG1 2EA
map
tel:
0118 939 3868 web
CLOSED pending relocation, check website
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A good example of an Oxfam bookshop. Within walking distance is an excellent Oxfam Music shop which is WAD for books of music and books about music as well as CDs, etc. Steven Whitehead 22.03.12
I like this shop. There is always an interesting (and often quirky) range of books for both readers and collectors and I have never found the prices too expensive. Steven Whitehead 10.05.14
Still the best bookshop in Reading. Greatly impressed by the customer service. While I was there a bag lady came in off the street looking for a book and the courtesy shown to her was exemplary. The chap at the till had to call the manager to find the book and between them they found it. If only all charity shops were as charitable. Steven 03.06.16
Really impressed with the range and quality of the books in this shop. It is now closed for a couple of weeks due to refurbishment. John Bacon 25.03.17
A large well stocked shop with reasonable prices on the railway books I looked at and purchased. John Edwards 12.10.17
Still the best of the charity shops in Reading by a country mile. I only get there once a year or so and always find something I wasn't looking for and, more often than not, at the right price. Steven 06.12.18
There's usually something to be had here, but don't expect any bargains as they seem to know the appropriate 'going rate'. Wessexman 08.03.22
Just as good as in pre-pandemic days. Highlights are sci-fi (especially mid-century writers); French literature (some hard-to-find stuff); and English literary fiction. Collectables are unappealing, but there's a decent fine art section. And prices are reasonable. Paul O 19.08.22
Was closed for refurbishment at the end of 2022 and supposed to reopen Easter 2023. It is still closed and I now understand that the building has been found to be uneconomical to repair and so the bookshop will remain closed until it can relocate somewhere else PaulH 11.11.23
I called in at the nearby Oxfam Music Shop to ask for an update on the Bookshop (24th November 2023). The helpful chap at the counter said that there was no firm news yet but he believed that Oxfam wanted to re-open a specialist bookshop in the town centre, ideally close to the music shop again, but no suitable premises had become available. In the meantime, the music shop has its usual stock of books of music and books about music plus a couple of spinners of mainly vintage paperbacks. And it is a damn fine record shop with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic team. WWAD for music lovers but not for readers, unless books about music are your bag. Steven 25.11.23
Still no sign of this - currently the OXFAM website says they are selling online, however this is a circular link back to the OXFAM website. Presumably now gone... misterg 19.05.25
Yes, the shop is still on Oxfam's shop map, but as 'now closed' and selling only online. TBG2 19.05.25
Removed 18.05.25 from London/NW Postcodes
Boom Cat Books(was Black Gull Books)/CAMDEN TOWN/70-71 West Yard, Camden Lock Place
Boom Cat Books (was Black Gull Books)
70-71 West Yard, Camden Lock Place CAMDEN TOWN NW1 8AF
map
tel:
020 7267 5005, mob: 07984 020 633 or 07496 292 003 e-mail
Open: 7 days 10.00 - 6.00
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A fast-changing stock including art, photography, film, history, philosophy, psychology, music, drama, fiction & mind body spirit. Now also art and records.
Despite the crowds of tourists at Camden still worth a look, about 50-50 arts and fiction. Paintworks 08.07.10
Small shop area tucked away behind the restaurants along the canal. Some stock outside. I Baillie 26.04.11
Difficult to find in the remotest courtyard of Camden Lock market, but well worth battling through the crowds. Strong on philosophy, psychology, mind/body/spirit, and a section headed 'Sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll'. The arts stock is extensive and mostly high quality; I found an uncommon monograph on the surrealist painter Paul Delvaux: a bargain at less than a tenner. Nicholas Sack 15.03.16
Two years after my last visit, Black Gull is still well worth a shufty, especially for arts and cinema, though photography stock is thin. Prices are surprisingly modest; at only a fiver, an unusual Arts Council catalogue of the painter Michael Andrews easily undercuts internet sellers. Another secondhand book seller has set up in the basement of Camden Stables Market, just a hundred yards to the north. Nicholas Sack 28.03.18
Black Gull Books have sold their Camden Town shop to friends and colleagues of theirs and since February it has been Boom Cat Books. (Black Gull still has the shop in East Finchley). TBG2 13.05.22
Slightly smaller but very similar sort of stock as in the Black Gull days. Now also stocks art and vinyl. Adrian 13.05.22
The secondhand book stall Nick mentioned in the Stables Antiques Market has gone. (As indeed have all the antiques stalls except for about two.) Adrian 13.05.22
A small selection of new and used books outside. Inside there is a good range of both hardback and paperback fiction. Half of the back wall is devoted to British and world history. Good selection of folio titles too. Jon R 18.10.23
There’s going to be a new secondhand bookshop opening in Muswell Hill (on Fortis Green Road) from the Boom Cat Books owner who recently shut down their Camden Market store. Sean Spurr 18.05.25
Removed 02.05.25 from Central/Shropshire
Oxfam Bookshop/LUDLOW/45 The Bullring
Oxfam Bookshop
45 The Bullring LUDLOW SY8 1AB
map
tel:
01584 876951 web
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Thin stock and overpriced. Curious in such a well heeled place AND no other s/h bookshops left in the town. Good s/h bookstall at the Sunday Antiques Market. Book Buyer 18.11.11
As bad as the Oxfam branch in Hereford, and that is saying something. Vast quantities of books are donated and yet almost none ever seem to reach the shelves. Last week the stock in Literature and History was virtually unchanged from what it had been three months earlier. Say no more. The Dikler 09.12.11
Hurrah! The stock has been refreshed. Some 20 books in the collectable Oxford English Novels series have appeared on the shelves at £19.99 a pop, roughly what they might fetch at a very upmarket shop in Cecil Court, WC2. But in Cecil Court their condition would be FINE (these vary from VERY GOOD to GOOD). And they wouldn't have unsightly Gift Aid stickers stuck irremovably to the first blank page. The Dikler 01.05.13
I still cannot understand why this shop is so dreary. It's got the location, the footfall and presumably good intentions. Prices are, for an Oxfam shop, quite reasonable. So why can I rarely find anything to buy? I travel hopefully. BookBuyer 02.11.13
Standard Oxfam Bookshop. Reasonable selection, particularly modern fiction, but the one goodie I would have bought had an over priced tag on that genuinely made me laugh out loud. Norman Davies 13.05.17
Oh dear. Gone a bit mad again. Had got more interesting stock with reasonable prices. Last visit found someone had been "valuing" items from the net. The result... some unrealistic prices. One couple looking at a CD couldn't believe the asking price. The assistant told them it had been "valued" properly. Item returned to the shelf! Purpose of a shop: money in the till? Book Buyer 02.11.18
Stock not very exciting and somewhat overpriced in many cases. £6.99 for one particular mass market paperback seemed rather optimistic to say the least. Perhaps it was an anomaly. Not much for the collector on this visit.
There were notices up within the shop stating that this particular Oxfam bookshop will be closing down on the 30th of April. David 09.03.25
This shop has now closed down. The only outlets for secondhand books in Ludlow are limited to whatever stock is held in the general charity shops and Peter Hadley who only appears to open on Fridays although this may be debatable. David 02.05.25
Removed 29.04.25 from Southern/Oxfordshire
Blewbury Antiques/BLEWBURY/London Road
Blewbury Antiques
London Road BLEWBURY OX11 9NX
map
tel:
01235 850366
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Phone number defunct, and does not emerge in online searches. Probably gone but in any case no information on books. Mark V 29.04.25
Removed 27.04.25 from North East/County Durham
Book _ Film Exchange (was Saddle Up)/DARLINGTON/109 Victoria Road
The Book & Film Exchange (was Saddle Up)
109 Victoria Road DARLINGTON DL1 5JQ
map
tel:
07946 505 886
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8.30 - 4.00, Wednesday 8.30 - 1.00, Saturday 8.30 - 3.00.
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Walked past this on my way from and to the station. Didn't have time to go in. Note says that the current opening times are being affected by an illness. Chris K 09.01.15
The shop is currently called "Saddle Up"(!) but is in the process of being taken over by a new owner (the previous person has now retired). There was a serious amount of paperback fiction on the somewhat chaotic ground floor (mixed in with vinyl LPs, although the new chap is in the process of "sorting everything out"), with a much smaller range of non-fiction, ranging from practically new through to well-thumbed. Also a decent range of SF p/bs which were flying off the shelves due to the current 4 for £5 offer. Hardbacks are downstairs but I ran out of time! New and very friendly owner says he is pricing stock cheaply to suit the local market. Less than two minutes' walk from the station. Graeme Rendall 12.09.15
Encouraged by the report this shop was only two minutes from the station I called there between connections. Sadly despite the shop encouraging passers-by to use it, it was closed at mid-day. A sign tells you to ring the bell, but the bell is missing! Next time perhaps. Steve Newman 22.02.18
This appears to be a type of sister shop to the Bishop Auckland one but has a greater degree of organisation to it. Books are quite literally piled floor to ceiling everywhere you look. I went round one pile to be confronted with a small area dedicated to soft porn from the 1970's. The long gone teenager in me got quite nostalgic! The cellar is fascinating and similarly piled. You need dedication and time in this shop but you may be rewarded. Two hours free parking in the car park behind the shop, and a cashpoint round the corner. Ring the bell as the door is normally locked. Very welcoming owner. Jonathan Morgan 31.07.19
The shop has changed its name back to "The Book & Film Exchange". A notice on the door mentions that it is now run by volunteers and is a charity bookshop. I did not have time to go in. From the outside, at least, it looked much the same as on my only previous visit, about six years ago, with the ground floor stuffed with an enormous number of mass-market paperbacks. At that time, it was utterly chaotic and identifying anything even half-worth buying required a serious degree of effort. I would like to think things have changed for the better here, but from what I could see it is hard to be too optimistic about this. Victoria Road, which leads down from the railway station to the (rather nice) town centre, remains a distinctly unattractive street, despite some efforts at regeneration in recent years. Visitors have to ring the bell as the door is kept locked. Booker T 13.03.24
I passed by the shop this morning (Friday, not a day it opens) and saw that all the stock was on shelves out in the street. Peering through the window, I saw that the shelves were empty and in a state of disarray. Anyone know what's going on? Glen Simpson 11.10.24
What’s going on (to answer your last correspondent’s query) is that a damp basement has driven the shop out its old premises. The non-fiction can be viewed a couple of doors down in the owner’s flat, up some stairs, if one so desires. The non-fiction, I was told, is in store. As some of the latter was in the basement and was suffering from the damp last Summer, one fears that this shop is likely to be NWAD for some time. The Bookman 29.12.24
The stock has been removed and the premises are boarded up and in a state of some dereliction. Occasionally, a couple of racks of unremarkable books are placed on the pavement outside a nearby property. There is apparently no imminent likelihood of the shop reopening. It is unclear whether the former proprietor - who is difficult to contact - is seeking other premises in the town, although there are currently no indications that he plans to do so. Booker T 27.04.25
Removed 27.04.25 from Central/Nottinghamshire
Knightcross Books/NOTTINGHAM/48 Halifax Place
Knightcross Books
48 Halifax Place Lacemarket NOTTINGHAM NG1 1QN
map
tel:
07840 528206 e-mail
Open: 7 days 9.00 - 9.00.
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Antiquarian, fine bindings, literature, topography, travel. I have about 1,000 items in stock. I am familiar with every Item and can respond to email or phone enquiries at once. Prices range from about £15 to £4,000.
I couldn't locate the shop. It may be someone working from home but there were opening hours. Tim 10.08.24
Following on from Tim's recent comment, I walked past the premises: an apartment in a modern residential block, rather tucked away. Clearly a seller who is working from home. There is no obvious online presence and I am currently trying to ascertain if s/he is still trading. Booker T 12.02.25
No longer trading, it seems. As noted previously, the address is residential and there is no online presence. Uncontactable by telephone and emails are left unanswered. Booker T 27.04.25
Removed 25.04.25 from South East/Kent
Unsworths Antiquarian Booksellers /FOLKESTONE/16 Canterbury Road
Unsworths Antiquarian Booksellers
16 Canterbury Road FOLKESTONE CT19 5NG
map
tel:
07802 875469 e-mail web
Open: Appointment necessary.
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About 2000 books, We buy and sell collectable, rare and scholarly books from every century of printing and on all the humanities, including literature, philosophy and society, with an antiquarian focus on early printing, Greek & Latin classics, Medieval & Renaissance Europe, and British history & topography. Also has stock at the Leas Lift Cafe, see above
The Folkestone premises have been sold and closed, and Unsworths is now once more based in London, where likeable proprietor Charlie Unsworth opened a rather smart shop in Walthamstow last summer. The shop is towards the upper end of Hoe Street, an easy walk from Walthamstow Central tube station. Unlike in its Kent days, the Walthamstow incarnation is not strictly appointment only. The shop's regular hours are from 1pm to 7pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, although it is certainly advisable to ring in advance if making a special journey. It is open at other times "by appointment or chance". There are some seriously good books here, and not all of them are hugely expensive. There is a strong focus on the humanities in general, with a wide-ranging stock on the arts and literature. Booker T 22.04.25
Removed 25.04.25 from South East/Kent
Leas Lift Railway Cafe/FOLKESTONE/Lower Sandgate Road
The Leas Lift Railway Cafe
Lower Sandgate Road FOLKESTONE CT20 1PS
map
web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 4.00, Saturday - Sunday 9.00 - 5.00
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Small (about 400 books) stock of cheaply priced modern, mainly paperback, books on Literature and the Humanities, including vintage Penguins, provided by Unsworth's.
The café has temporarily relocated and is operating from a metal shipping container, with only outside seating, near the Lower Leas Coastal Car Park on Lower Sandgate Road. It no longer has any books. The Leas Lift funicular railway, which has been closed since 2017, is at last undergoing repairs, at a cost of £6.6m, but is unlikely to reopen before 2026. Although the café will move back when the work is complete, there are at present no plans for it to stock second-hand books again, and its previous supplier of these, Unsworths, has left Folkestone and is now London-based. Booker T 24.04.25
Removed 17.04.25 from London/W Postcodes
Fuller D_Arch Smith Ltd /MARYLEBONE/37b New Cavendish Street
Fuller D'Arch Smith Ltd
37b New Cavendish Street MARYLEBONE W1G 8JR
map
tel:
020 7722 0063
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The company Fuller d'Arch Smith was dissolved in 2010. The premises now appears to be occupied by a medical supplies company. Timothy d'Arch Smith does still trade individually as a bookseller but through catalogues. Mark V 17.04.25
Removed 16.04.25 from Central/Derbyshire
Chappells Antique Centre/BAKEWELL/King Street
Chappells Antique Centre
King Street BAKEWELL DE45 1DZ
map
tel:
01629 812496
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00.
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A secondhand bookstall dealing mainly in paperbacks.
Chappells Antiques closed in 2007 on the retirement of the owner. The premises are now occupied by a different business, Bakewell Antiques and Works of Art, which sells 'furniture, sculpture and paintings.' Does not appear from descriptions to stock books. Mark V 16.04.25
Removed 16.04.25 from Scotland/Central Scotland
Kingdom Books Fife Community Bookshop/LEVEN/Clydesdale House, 9 Durie Street
Kingdom Books Fife Community Bookshop
Clydesdale House, 9 Durie Street LEVEN KY8 4EZ
map
tel:
01333 421295 e-mail web
Tuesday to Saturday 11.00 - 5.00
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Not for Profit Organisation run by volunteers. Accessible ground floor shop. Approx. 5000 used books in stock but more added weekly through customer donations. Approx 2000 books in storage awaiting review and pricing. Specialist subjects Local History, Scottish, Military, Wine, Food and Drink, Gardening, Craft, Art, Academic.
Appears closed. Website, Instagram and FB pages do not load, and the empty premises are currently up for sale. Mark V 16.04.25
Removed 15.04.25 from South East/West Sussex
Fisher Nautical/HASSOCKS/Huntswood House
Fisher Nautical
Huntswood House St Helena Lane Streat HASSOCKS BN6 8SD
map
tel:
01273 890273 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00. Appointment necessary.
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Established 1963 and extensive and long lasting wants list kept. Catalogue published about every month. Phone, fax, e-mail or write for printed catalogue AND send us your wants list. Postal business, visitors by appointment only, regret browsing not possible. Most parcels dispatched next day."Books about the Sea" When all else fails try us or save time and & try us first!
I've bought maritime and naval books from Fisher's for 10 years online or from their printed catalogues. A wonderful family business to deal with and in my opinion package their books in the best wrapping I've received from a book dealer. Laurence Batchelor 25.02.14
Their AbeBooks account states: 'We are a postal business only and regret browsing our stock is not possible. Visitors by appointment only, we are happy to let you view specific titles in our office.' Mark V 15.04.25
Removed 15.04.25 from South West/Devon
Rare and Antique Books/EXETER/C_W
Rare and Antique Books
C&W Chichester Place 18 Southernhay East EXETER EX1 1QD
map
tel:
07594 274729 e-mail web
Open: By Appointment Only.
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We are book dealers in rare and collectable first edition modern and children's books, as well as Ian Fleming Bonds. We buy and sell in these categories and can meet if a suitable time can be arranged. Kipling, Carroll, CS Lewis, HG Wells, Fleming, AA Milne, Maclean, Rackham, Babar, Golliwogg, AC Doyle, Upton, Tolkein, Stoker, RL Stevenson.
At their website, the bookseller states they are "an online bookseller specialising in first editions". I could not see any current invitation to visit by appointment. Mark V 15.04.25
Removed 15.04.25 from South East/Kent
All Saints_ Book Cafe/BIRLING/All Saint_s Church
All Saints' Book Cafe
All Saint's Church Snodland Road BIRLING ME19 5JF
map
tel:
07970 276070 e-mail web
Open: Third Saturday of each month 10.00 - 1.00.
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Large selection of quality books on all subjects. All at very reasonable prices. Proceeds go to support this Grade 1 listed church. A small cafe provides light refreshments and a comfortable place to browse.
Closed about 4 years ago. The person who ran it moved away and it has not continued. Mark V 15.04.25
Removed 15.04.25 from South East/Kent
Canterbury CLC Bookshop/CANTERBURY/22A Lower Bridge Street
Canterbury CLC Bookshop
22A Lower Bridge Street CANTERBURY CT1 2LG
map
tel:
01227 463 535 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.15 - 5.00.
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New and secondhand Christian books.
Mainly new books. However there are sufficient secondhand and remainders to make it of interest to those of us who still read Christian books. Staff are etgow. Steven 14.08.14
Website address leads to a defunct link and this bookshop is no longer in the organisation's list of shops (which has two shops only, in Deeside and Aberdeen). Address now appears to be a grocery store. Mark V 15.04.25
Removed 15.04.25 from South East/East Sussex
Savery Books/BRIGHTON/257 Ditchling Road
Savery Books
257 Ditchling Road BRIGHTON BN1 6JH
map
tel:
01273 503030
Open: Monday - Friday 9.00 - 5.00, closed Tuesday.
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General secondhand fiction and non-fiction.
This shop is closed on Tuesdays. Go on another day, though, and you'll find an inviting, satisfyingly old-school bookshop with well-stocked shelves and the occasional pile of paperbacks on the floor.There's a strong selection of modern fiction (some in almost new condition), plenty of fine art, and sometimes intriguing pop culture/esoteric titles in the window. Sensible prices, friendly proprietor. Off the beaten track? Maybe, but while you're there you can also indulge yourself at the independent bakers Raven's nearby. Paul O 03.07.15
Great little bookshop, not sure how I've missed it for so long (is it newish?)- has a broad selection of literary and modern paperback novels for us lowly "general readers", lol, and some nice shelves on poetry and such; very fair prices too. Not huge, but definitely will be a place I visit regularly. Yossarian 22.08.15
This place has apparently been going for 20 years. It is the best of all the secondhand bookshop in Brighton. I chose to walk it and had to ask for Oxygen at the end of my trek. Be advised it is a long walk outside the other shops clustered in the New Lanes. That said the no 26 bust from central Brighton (St Peter's Church) stops right outside the bookshop. The stock is good quality and wide ranging . It could do with some central head height shelving to take the piles off the floor. That aside this place is difficult to fault and its prices were most reasonable and the staff / owner very attentive. Their love of and knowledge of books shone thru. It is an approach that many in Brighton and elsewhere could learn from. They had not heard of the Book shop Guide and were most pleased with their (well deserved) write-up. Despite the trek, WAD. Jon Morgan 26.09.15
Closed when I called on a Monday! However, the nearby Ravens Bakery more than made up for my disappointment. Chris Harte 08.04.16
Caveat viator! I toiled out to "Fiveways" today (9.01.19) to find that the shop is closed till Saturday 2nd February. Is it one of those annoying seasonal bookshops, I wonder? Laurence Purcell 21.01.19
A long way out of the centre and predominantly a paperback parade; I suppose that about ten per cent of the books are hardbacks. If you are determined to visit, check in advance that the shop will be open. Laurence Purcell 04.09.21
Closed. According to their AbeBooks account: 'Savery Books have been full-time used booksellers since 1993. We no longer have a shop and now sell only via the internet.' Mark V 15.04.25
Removed 15.04.25 from South East/East Sussex
Antiquarian Book Company /BRIGHTON/49 Hampstead Road
The Antiquarian Book Company
49 Hampstead Road BRIGHTON BN1 5NG
map
tel:
01273 389526 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.00 - 5.00 by appointment.
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Private premises. I specialise in Brighton/Sussex material, publishers' bindings including early dust jackets and crime fiction especially bibliomysteries. I also buy and sell manuscripts, maps, photograph albums and ephemera. I sell only at book fairs: twice a month with ETC Fairs in Bloomsbury and many PBFA Fairs across the country. I also have a regular stand at the Lewes Book Fair. There is a calendar of fairs on my website. I am not on abe books. Trade visitors are welcome by appointment only.
Bookseller states on his website "I only sell my stock at book fairs" and it seems clear there is no shop or private book room open to the general public. Doesn't appear to meet the Guide's criteria for listing. Mark V 15.04.25
Removed 14.04.25 from London/SE Postcodes
James Francis Books/DULWICH/555D Lordship Lane
James Francis Books
555D Lordship Lane DULWICH SE22 8LB
map
tel:
79307 59064 e-mail
Open: Call to book an appointment
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Specialising in rare art and first edition books. Based in South East London.
Removed 14.04.25 from London/SE Postcodes
Beaumont Travel Books/BLACKHEATH/33 Couthurst Road
Beaumont Travel Books
33 Couthurst Road BLACKHEATH SE3 8TN
map
tel:
020 8293 4271
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Travel, history & exploration.
Removed 14.04.25 from London/SW Postcodes
Folios Ltd/BROMPTON/193 - 195 Brompton Road
Folios Ltd
193 - 195 Brompton Road BROMPTON SW3 1LZ
map
tel:
020 7581 2706
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Books about the Arab world, the Middle East and Islam.
It is really hard to find the shop easy. There is no signs on the street. But only you must find "French bank" on the street and then this bookshop in the same building with the bank's. 5th flour of this apartment. Very nice and very rich stock on Middle East, Turkey and Islam. Aytac Yildiz 14.05.11
AbeBooks gives this bookseller's address as Oxford (no details), and states "viewing by appointment only". Companies House gives a registered address in Witney, Oxon.The Brompton Road address does not appear in these sources and comes up in searches as a bank. It looks like the bookseller may have relocated. Mark V 12.04.25
AbeBooks gives this bookseller's address as Oxford (no details), and states "viewing by appointment only". Companies House gives a registered address in Witney, Oxon.The Brompton Road address does not appear in these sources and comes up in searches as a bank. It looks like the bookseller may have relocated. Mark V 12.04.25
Removed 14.04.25 from London/W Postcodes
Hosain Books/MARBLE ARCH/25 Connaught Street
Hosain Books
25 Connaught Street MARBLE ARCH W2 2AY
map
tel:
020 7262 7900
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Specialists in Central Asia & the Middle East.
Removed 11.04.25 from East Anglia/Suffolk
Clare Antiques _ Interiors/CLARE/The MillMalting Lane
Clare Antiques & Interiors
The Mill Malting Lane CLARE CO10 8NW
map
tel:
01787 278449 e-mail web
Open: 7 days Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 5.00, Sunday 11.00 - 5.00.
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One of the biggest antique warehouses in Suffolk with with a bookroom and numerous stalls with books.
I'm afraid I didn't have time to inspect Harris & Harris, as I was too busy in the book department of the antique centre to which Jon Morgan refers. The section on intelligence (CIA, MI6, etc.) is one of the most remarkable I have seen and well worth a special visit for aficionados. Geoffrey Warner 03.05.13
The above puff sent me on a visit in anticipation. I wish I hadn't wasted my time. Chris Harte 08.10.13
Did Chris Harte make it to the second floor? As well as CIA, M16, Cold War etc this place has an excellent art department as well as serious(non -celebrity) cookery. Antiques centres and books are normally dreadful but this place is a notable exception. rickenbacker 05.08.16
Substantial variety of books scattered across three floors, with the principal areas at the top of the stairs on the first floor and at the back of the second. Mainly military subjects, and a lot of transport. Prices good if a little random (there seem to be a lot of titles costing a fiver - which either might turn out to be a bargain or a touch overpriced depending on what you pull out). Pleasant cafe on the ground floor, although railway aficionados will probably head for the disused station a short stroll away. Steven Kelly 10.08.17
Centre being rebuilt August 2019 but surprised by large sized nearly shop size book unit on 2nd floor. Good selection, fair pricing. Also good unit on 1st floor. Worth a detour if in west Suffolk. Norman Davies 15.08.19
As Norman Davies says, the second floor unit counts almost as a proper shop. I found it rather hard work to fathom the scheme of classification, though I'm sure it exists. Quite good sections on literature but the books are not arranged in alphabetical order which I suppose some may think adds to the fun. Laurence Purcell 24.09.21
Website said this place was closed until spring 2023. No reply when phoning to check on this. Arrived on 27th of September to find it still closed. Most of the building seems to have been converted to flats now. David 28.09.23
Closed. Facebook page states "The antiques centre is permanently closed. Tearoom reopened as Maltworks Coffee on 14 June 2024." Mark V 11.04.25
Removed 11.04.25 from East Anglia/Norfolk
Horning Post Office and Shop /NORWICH/39 Lower Street Horning
Horning Post Office and Shop
39 Lower Street Horning NORWICH NR12 8AA
map
tel:
01692 630225 e-mail
Open: Monday - Friday 8.30 - 5.00
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Norfolk/Suffolk local interest; Arthur Ransome novels, collectable and first editions; history, literature. Also greetings cards, jigsaws, stationery.
About 200 books fairly priced in bookshelves set amongst the other things post offices sell, plenty of Ransome and Broads history, a few shelves of other non-fiction, pleasant lady in charge, next to an excellent deli/cafe. Paulp 26.04.19
Closed in May 2024 according to local press reports, on the retirement of the owners. The post office counter has moved to Tidings, a nearby newsagents. Mark V 11.04.25
Removed 11.04.25 from London/SE Postcodes
Book Aid/SYDENHAM/Bromley House Kangley Bridge Road
Book Aid
Bromley House Kangley Bridge Road SYDENHAM SE26 5AQ
map
tel:
020 8778 2145 web
Open: CLOSING, see last comment
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A large shop with plenty of chairs and quiet corners. It supports a Christian charity and the stock is strong on Christian theology. See website for directions.
An enormous stock here, but very little indeed in the way of non-Christian books. Instead, there is shelf after shelf of theology, histories of seemingly almost every Christian denomination, volumes of works by Christian thinkers, Bible commentaries (arranged by individual books of the Bible), biographies of Christians, accounts of missionary work, books on Christian living and a whole lot more on similar themes. To peruse these volumes while the greatest hits of Bonnie Tyler blasted through the windows from the CD player in the engineering firm next door was a slightly surreal experience. But the gravel-voiced Welshwoman rasped huskily on, and I checked out the entire stock...
A small amount of adult fiction, just five shelves (three of Christian fiction and two secular). Quite a lot of vintage children's novels, mostly dating from the late 19th and first half of the 20th century, either with overtly Christian themes or of a generally uplifting kind deemed suitable to be given as Sunday School prizes. A few small shelves of modern children's fiction, divided into Christian and secular, with the former predominating. Three shelves of Ladybird books, vintage and modern, at £2 each. Also a few shelves of generally unexciting and aged travel books from, I would suspect, the libraries of elderly Christians who have downsized or died. One minor surprise among all the religion-imbued volumes was a reasonable selection of (mostly secular) poetry - although nothing too daring, so don't expect to find the works of Allen Ginsberg or Anne Sexton - and again, mostly of a certain vintage, with some of the poets having lapsed into obscurity (in certain cases deservingly so). A stockroom, which can be entered with the permission of the very helpful staff, houses a few shelves of rare and antiquarian Christian books, including various complete sets of volumes, some of them priced at well into three figures. For the more ordinary books on the open shelves, prices are generally low, in many cases notably so. There is currently a half-price sale for all open-shelf stock, although this ends on 31st July.
Book Aid is a five-minute walk from Lower Sydenham railway station. If travelling by rail from central London, cross the railway footbridge, walk up the short approach road, turn left into Kangley Bridge Road, a rather unpleasant thoroughfare that is lined with light industrial premises, and it is a short way down on the right-hand side. The books are upstairs, on the first floor, so access is difficult for those with disabilities. Cash and card payments. Not worth a visit unless theology and Christian literature are your areas of interest, in which case a trip here is pretty much essential. Booker T 25.07.24
Some bad news to report: this large and well-stocked shop is closing down soon. To clear as much of the stock as possible, there is a half-price sale: 50% off all books (excluding those in the rare book room) until the end of March. The shop now opens only on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 4pm, but as a one-off it will also open during those hours on Saturday 29th March. If your interests are theology or Christian literature, try to get here before it shuts for good. The charity's other bookshops - in Barnard Castle (Co. Durham) and Templepatrick (Co. Antrim) - will remain open. Booker T 26.03.25
I called in here on Thursday and spoke to the manager and volunteers. This bookshop, once a good source of income for the charity, has suffered a severe decline in footfall in the last few years. It is now failing by quite some margin to cover its costs, hence the decision to vacate the premises. Contrary to what is currently posted online, however, the manager told me that the shop will remain open for a while after the "closing down sale" ends on 29th March. No date has yet been announced, but the closure has very probably been delayed by only a few weeks. Booker T 29.03.25
Removed 10.04.25 from Central/Lincolnshire
Chiefly Crime Bookstore/LOUTH/64 Legbourne Road
Chiefly Crime Bookstore
64 Legbourne Road LOUTH LN11 8ER
map
tel:
01507 607651
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This listing looked rather empty and "Chiefly Crime" in Louth does not emerge in searches. However, I found that a Victor Huntrods Brown at this address, elsewhere described as a bookdealer, sadly died on 29/11/24, according to a probate notice. Mark V 09.04.25
Removed 10.04.25 from Central/Staffordshire
Michael Morris Antique Maps, Books and Prints/BURTON UPON TRENT/Weavers Green
Michael Morris Antique Maps, Books and Prints
Weavers Green Needwood BURTON UPON TRENT DE13 9PQ
map
tel:
01283 575344 e-mail web
Open: By appointment.
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Varied stock but specialising in maps, plans, charts, atlases, prints, engravings, manuscripts and ephemera. Prices from very little to quite a lot. If you can give me an idea of your interests I may have something for you. I've been established - supplying libraries, museums, record offices, the trade and collectors - since 1993. I also buy and swap.
Website defunct, the shop name does not return results other than TBG, and the property itself, Weavers Green, advertised for sale as a vacant private residence in Nov 2023. Mark V 10.04.25
Removed 08.04.25 from East Anglia/Suffolk
BASIC Life Charity Bookshop/FELIXSTOWE/312 High Street Walton
BASIC Life Charity Bookshop
312 High Street Walton FELIXSTOWE IP11 9QJ
map
tel:
01394 279400 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 9.30 - 4.00
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One room of books, standard donated stock at cheap prices.
This shop closed some years ago. Basic have 2 general charity shops, in Felixstowe and Walton, each with books but no longer a dedicated bookshop HB 25.03.25
Removed 28.03.25 from London/SW Postcodes
Wandsworth Oasis Books/TOOTING/Amen Corner
Wandsworth Oasis Books
Amen Corner 234-250 Mitcham Road TOOTING SW17 9NT
map
tel:
020 3759 8802 web
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We have a large fiction section, as well as classics, history, self help, world religions, business, art and cinema, DIY, travel and, of course, a children’s area.
The prices were pretty high, and they don't accept credit cards, though their stock was quite large, but essentially the same old rubbish. Mandalay Emporium 26.04.11
Definitely my last ever visit to this place: the manager was out and when I inquired where the shelf of signed books was (they used to have one), the shop assistant replied "Oh the manager keeps those for himself, as he collects them". Mandalay Emporium 25.08.12
Avoid going between the hours of 11.30am and 2.30 pm, as the shop is, more often than not, 'closed for lunch'. I know it's staffed by volunteers, but still ... Alastair Palmer 19.12.13
Now relocated to larger premises, in fact a corner of a much larger ex departmental store. Far better layout and helpful staff. Cheaper than other book shops in the area too. Well worth checking out if in the area. Steve Newman 05.02.16
This larger shop opened September 2015 and is much better organized, laid out and managed. Richard 23.03.16
This is a general, albeit large, charity shop. It looks less than enticing from the outside, but has quite and extensive and varied stock of books. I came away with a bagful for £11.00. Some good quality, recently published hardback books. NB it is nearly opposite the now closed (aren't they all?) police station.They now have a card machine but only for purchases of £10.00 or over. I will definitely be back. Jon Morgan 23.03.16
Extensive stock for a general charity shop, but quality is mostly mediocre. Still, I rescued a book on Naive art for a rock-bottom price. A cheerful lady assistant was unpacking new arrivals and advising browsers. Worth a shufty if you are in the neighbourhood. Nicholas Sack 01.10.18
The book stock here at Amen Corner is greatly diminished and no longer large enough to list on TBG. It now numbers just 600 volumes - half of them children's books - of typical charity-shop standard. The focus of this branch is now very much on clothing. "The turnover on clothes is faster", the shop manager informed me. But the charity's Tooting Bec shop, in contrast, does have quite a large stock of books. Booker T 28.03.25
Removed 22.03.25 from North West/Lancashire
Clitheroe Books/CLITHEROE/29 Moor Lane
Clitheroe Books
29 Moor Lane CLITHEROE BB7 1BE
map
tel:
01200 444242, mob: 07377062311 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Friday 10.30 - 4.00, Saturday 10.00 - 4.30
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General stock as well as children's, literature and transport.
Superb, wide selection. Very pleasant shop with a knowledgeable owner. Stephen Almond 06.02.09
A rather austere place. The owner soon became known to me as "Dr No," for he answered my eleven question with just that two letter word: nothing else. Felt unwelcome. Chris Harte 27.07.09
Always lovingly looked after and with large stock of good quality books. Usually leave with several books. This visit was no different. Also child friendly and that's such a selling point. Doc 29.08.15
A lovely shop, spacious, bright and well-ordered. All subjects are represented, and though the stock is not large it punches above its weight in terms of quality, condition and interest. Dustwrappers are protected with clear film, a careful touch I always appreciate, making the books sparkle on the shelves. Clitheroe is well worth a visit: streets of small independent shops, ginnels and yards, a castle and not just one, but now two, secondhand book shops. TravellingLibrary 03.09.15
Nice shop, usually make at least one purchase, agree above re Clitheroe but didn't find another bookshop? Chatty proprietor too. Norman Davies 06.02.17
Now sells new books as well as old and has opened another floor in the basement. Mark V 01.09.24
The shop is to close at the end of March. The owner, Paul Hamer, who took it over in 2020, signed a six-year lease in 2022 but is activating a break clause to terminate it after three years. Several factors lie behind his decision, he says, not least that the rent is too high, rendering the business unsustainable. He also complains that Clitheroe town centre is "dumbing down", with a profusion of barber's shops, nail salons and vape shops having opened there in recent years, and that these types of retailers do not attract visitors from outside the town. However, all might not be lost as he is looking for possible alternative sites for the shop. The high rents in Clitheroe make staying on in the town unlikely, he says, although sharing premises with another business might be an option. But he is also looking at moving the shop to a nearby town where rents are lower, such as Padiham or Burnley. Booker T 03.02.25
This shop's last day of trading will be Saturday 22nd March. There is currently a closing down sale: 50% off all second-hand books if a minimum of £20 (at pre-reduction prices) is spent. The books downstairs are £1 each if you buy five or more. For new books, buy two and get a third book free. It now seems unlikely that the owner will move the business to a nearby town where rents are cheaper, a possibility that had been mentioned a couple of months ago. Instead, he will be trading at book fairs in the north-west. Booker T 10.03.25
Removed 14.03.25 from Southern/Berkshire
Bas Books _ Home/NEWBURY/Kennet Shopping Centre
Bas Books & Home
Kennet Shopping Centre NEWBURY RG14 5EN
map
tel:
07436 408059 e-mail web
Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00
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Charity bookshop. Closing down in March 2025.
Only a brief entry for this shop - which has escaped TBG notice until now - as it is closing down on Friday 14th March, owing to rising costs. Any TBG readers who want to check it out have seven weeks left to do so. It has a quite a large stock of second-hand books and also sells furniture to raise funds for Sebastian's Action Trust, which supports children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. The shop is no longer accepting donations. The Kennet Shopping Centre is right in the middle of Newbury, just off Market Street, a five-minute walk from the railway station. The charity's other bookshop, in Bracknell, will remain open. Booker T 24.01.25
Removed 07.03.25 from Central/Herefordshire
Bookmasters/HEREFORD/Stall 42, The Butter Market
Bookmasters
Stall 42, The Butter Market HEREFORD HR1 2AA
map
Open: Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00
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Great secondhand book stall in the Hereford ButterMarket - opened Sept 2024. All genres of paperback fiction on offer (£2 each or 3 for £5 currently) and also available are hardbacks, non fiction and kids. New stock in regularly and great service. A lovely place to visit for any book lover. Gemraaaaa 08.11.24
Unfortunately this bookstall has now ceased trading. The last day of business was the 28th of February. David 07.03.25
Removed 28.02.25 from South West/Gloucestershire
Attic Books/CHELTENHAM/14 St James Street
Attic Books
14 St James Street CHELTENHAM GL52 2SH
map
tel:
01242 255300
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.30 - 4.30.
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Small stock of interesting and collectable secondhand books. All books currently half-marked price.
Nice cosy shop with an owner who knew quite a bit about his stock. Various antiquarian books amongst the rest and well worth a visit if nearby. Chris Harte 31.12.09
Excellent small shop packed with good value books on most subjects. Norman Davies 24.04.10
Larger stock than I expected from the entry and comments. Those interested in the excellent non-fiction sections will find a large overflow on the first floor as well as the fiction collection. Prices are reasonable and the owner very helpful, but you need to pay by cheque or cash. There is a long-stay car park virtually opposite the shop. Geoffrey Warner 18.07.11
Always worth a visit - books half the advertised price. Parking opposite. Well worth a detour and near to many of the charity shops. The Drifter 14.02.15
Lovely and cramped but still a muddle even six years on from my last visit. A good bookshop for general titles with fiction on the first floor. Pay a visit. Chris Harte 24.05.16
A real treasure trove. Takes some sorting through but worth it. David 15.02.20
Despite knowing that we should have checked before travelling we came to Cheltenham on Monday to find that Attic books opening hours have changed. They are now open from Wednesday to Saturday from 10.30 to 4.30. Sign still in window staying that half price sale on. David 01.12.21
Small, dark, limited stock. The sale is still on and seems a good idea considering some of the prices I noticed. Laurence Purcell 13.07.23
There didn't appear to be much change in the stock since our last visit. The half price sale seems to be a permanent feature. As noted by a previous reviewer this is just as well since it makes the prices more acceptable. To be fair we have purchased from here previously but not on this occasion. David 29.07.24
Removed 28.02.25 from London/E Postcodes
St Joseph_s Hospice Five Sisters Books/HACKNEY/83 Mare Street
St Joseph's Hospice Five Sisters Books
83 Mare Street HACKNEY E8 4RG
map
tel:
020 8525 3003 (number for all four of the charity's shops) e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 11.00 - 4.00 but sometimes closed at short notice.
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Charity bookshop selling a varied selection of second-hand and new books.
St Joseph's Hospice has four charity shops in Hackney (one of which is three doors away), but this is the only bookshop. Although officially called "Five Sisters Books", this name does not currently appear on the shop front, which carries only the words "St Joseph's Hospice". Its stock is fairly evenly split between second-hand books, donated by the public, and discounted new books, donated by corporate sponsors, publishers etc. Although small, the shop has quite a good range of modern and classic fiction, including new hardback crime novels; paperbacks are priced from £1 to £3. The stock is diverse and reflects the area's cosmopolitan nature: for example, there are sections for "black and POC [people of colour] literature" and LGBTQ+ books. Small sections for poetry, drama, architecture, nature and ecology, psychology, baking, cookery, travel, sport (cycling is strongly featured), art, biography, history, science and politics, as well as children's books and graphic novels. However, each non-fiction category takes up only a shelf or two, so in every case the selection is only a few dozen books. Nevertheless, the quality of the stock is slightly better than typical charity-shop fare, so it is worth a look if you are nearby. The shop is just north of Regent's Canal and quite a long way down Mare Street from the centre of Hackney. Prices are reasonable, although in most cases not bargain-basement cheap. Credit cards are usually accepted, but the card reader is sometimes on the blink or loaned to one of the other outlets, so it is best to take some cash with you. The opening hours are not entirely to be guaranteed, as they depend on volunteer availability, but there is not really an effective way of checking this in advance. The mid-week days are the most reliably covered, apparently. Booker T 01.06.24
I tried to visit this bookshop yesterday but signs in the window say it has closed down. mrbadexample 15.02.25
As the previous reviewer mentioned, the shop has closed down. There are notices in the window and stacks of books on the floor. I called in at the hospice's general shop a couple of doors away, to try to find out if the bookshop might reopen at a different location. Sadly, the hospice does not intend to have a second-hand bookshop again, at least not in the near future. Some of the books might find their way into one of the charity's other shops, but that's as good as it gets. Booker T 28.02.25
Removed 15.02.25 from Central/Derbyshire
Peak Dragon Books/MATLOCK/39 Dale Road
Peak Dragon Books
39 Dale Road MATLOCK DE4 3LT
map
tel:
01629 818793. mob: 07740 200594 e-mail web
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 10.30 - 4.30, Sunday 11.00 - 4.30. Sometimes open later, but earlier in winter esp. Sundays. Monday & Tuesday by appointment.
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A general second-hand bookshop on the edge of the Peak District. Specialities include art, history, local history and British topography. Also a good stock of fiction. Competitive prices. Step-free access, car parks and railway station nearby.
Why no previous reviews of this shop? A flying visit left me hungry for my next trip here. After a visit to Long established shops in Cromford and Buxton which have been living off their reputation for too long my visit to Peak Dragon was a joy. Good selection, excellent condition and prices I haven’t seen for a long time. Hopefully this shop and the one in Wirksworth are good examples of what can be achieved in the second hand book trade. WWAD Bazza 10.05.23
As stated above the stock is in good condition with reasonable prices on the whole. I would say that it is worth checking their opening hours before travelling as they occasionally vary due to the time of year. David 11.08.24
An outstanding shop - one of the best for many miles around - which opened in 2022. A large main room and two smaller rooms at the back. The proprietors have had shops in Manchester and Hull in the past 30 years, and they know what they're doing. The stock here is very good and in fine condition. To make things even better, most of the prices are low, some very much so. In the main room, the stock of novels and poetry is nothing short of superb. The drama section is slightly less good, but still creditable. Lots of Folio Society volumes at very cheap prices. Not much in the way of children's books, although there are a few vintage titles. About 120 Observer books for sale at prices from £2 to £8, depending on age and condition. Outstanding for history. Lots of books on Russia. Also good for military history, politics, philosophy, transport (not just railways), cookery and cinema. The glass cabinets contain some genuinely rare historical and topographical books, at fairly reasonable prices, given their scarcity. One of the back rooms contains a very good selection on natural history, also gardening and topography. Notably strong for books on local history (including other Midland counties) and climbing/walking. The other back room has a good stock of art and architecture books, very competitively priced. I spent some time chatting with one of the owners, likeable but waspish. She doesn't suffer fools gladly, as attested to by signs in the shop, for example: "Sherlock Holmes is a fictional character, not an author. Find him under 'D' for Arthur Conan Doyle" and "Please note: Jane Eyre does not write books. She is a fictional character from a novel by Charlotte Brontë"... not to everyone's liking, perhaps, but if I ran a bookshop, they're the sort of signs I might put up. When I asked about the opening hours, she said: "We close when I get fed up!" In practice, that means 4.30pm, sometimes 5pm, occasionally 5.30pm. No point ringing to check, though, as those decisions are made on the spur of the moment. On the main road, just a couple of minutes from the railway station. Easily accessible for those with disabilities. Certainly WWAD. Booker T 05.09.24
Peak Dragon Books presents an enticing and attractive shop front with large windows and promises to be a lively proposition. It does not disappoint. The stock is well laid out and selected, categorised and almost curated to the point that interest in the next shelf is always maintained. Very little padding & filler here - it's all worth the perusal. Level entry & all on one floor. Three rooms with good natural light. A haven of a heated & warm bookshop amid Storm Darragh. Pricing seems to be uncomplicated. Typical £2, £3, £4 £5 etc for the general reading & interesting, More for the collectable of course but all within very reasonable limits and very fairly priced. The Folio's were really good value which cannot be said of the large but probably static offering across the road in Oxfam bookshop at silly prices. Several paperbacks also seen at just £1. So this is remarkably good commercial second-hand bookshop that's holding its own on the high street just across the road from Oxfam Books in Matlock. Living proof that the charity bookshop behemoths have not cornered the marketplace in second-hand books and it is possible for sole traders and partnerships with a passion for books to trade from a bricks and mortar premises. How do they do it? Well it's not the free donated stock; its not the business rate discount or tax relief on donations. Nor is it the free volunteer labour, nor the support of a large head office. Maybe its because Peak Dragon know their local market, are agile in marketing and pricing and have bags of prior book trade experience to call on. I noted the latest Oxfam pricing directive leaked elsewhere continues to plead cost constraints and urges the faithful to push up book prices quoting a £2.99 minimum or alternatively 2/3rds of RRP. All this will do is leverage room for the smaller private book-dealers to reconsider the viability of a shop - more power to their elbow. So my book buying score at the full time whistle was Peak Dragon 5 - Oxfam Books 0. Two close shots at goal in Oxfam however. SaltaireTom 30.12.24
Visited this weekend to find huge signs announcing the shop’s closure on 15th February. A brilliant little shop and its closure will be a huge loss! AmeliaH 11.02.25
Removed 29.01.25 from Scotland/South East Scotland
Book Room/MELROSE/1 Dingleton Road
The Book Room
1 Dingleton Road MELROSE TD6 9QS
map
tel:
01896 823337
Open: Monday - Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday 12.00 - 5.00
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A general stock of secondhand books with a bit of everything.
A nice mixed selection of stock. Iain Murray
Very easy to find, just 50 yards from the central square. A small shop, but with an interesting and diverse stock. Richard 29.07.09
This is a delightful shop. Mainly high quality Scottish stock but a good variety of other things. Very civilised. Not cheap. PaulP 02.08.11
Another dull visit to this shop in the posh town of Melrose. Over the years, I've managed to buy three small books here. Not this time, alas. Looked at nearly everything , including more neat boxes on the floor. Chris K 10.01.13
A better visit last Saturday. Found 3 well priced books and had a good chat with the quiet owner. One small room is currently out of action so there are even more medium boxes on the floor. Lots of old post-WW2 titles. Chris K 31.05.14
Medium sized bookshop, reasonable subject range. Lots of stock in boxes and bags on floor, pricing here not always clear. Found an interesting topography book, sensibly priced. HB 22.09.19
Closing time will be 4pm from now on. Visted on New Year's Eve, both rooms open but very little caught my eye. Owner is quiet but livens up if you're prepared to engage. Old railway station and platform/shelter across the road is worth five minutes' detour if visiting here. Graeme Rendall 03.01.20
Agree with most of the more recent comments about this well-stocked and interesting shop, where I had several surprising finds. Opening times have changed and are now 12 noon to 5.00 pm every day except Wednesdays and Sundays. Wessexman 06.09.21
Quaint and old fashioned. Fairly small - 2 rooms crammed full of stock, mostly but not always well laid out. Prices reasonable enough for me - 2 paperbacks for £4.50 that I wouldn't have known I wanted had I not been here, having a rummage (and isn't that the point of bookshops?!). My wife bought nothing as everything SHE picked up was £10 (this seems to be a gift she has).
Owner pretty quiet but friendly enough; just shy I think. He did mumble to himself quite a bit as he wandered around parts of the shop, which raised an eyebrow but it all adds character! Take a note of the late opening time but certainly worth stopping by if you're in Border country. Flip M 26.07.22
Removed 28.01.25 from Scotland/South East Scotland
Forest Bookstore/SELKIRK/26 Market Place
The Forest Bookstore
26 Market Place SELKIRK TD7 4BL
map
tel:
01750 22763 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Friday 10.00 - 1.30 & 2.30 - 4.30, Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
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Literature, Art & Environment. Contemporary & Modern . Scottish and International
Principally carrying new titles, the S/H books are on a couple of bookcases at the back. Prices on the high side - although the majority of titles are in very nice condition. Steven Kelly 10.07.15
Sadly I could not find any second hand books and the owner was in a rush to close as she had to go and see her daughter and closed early at four o'clock. As a bookshop for new books it seemed very good. CB 27.08.16
Removed 28.01.25 from North East/County Durham
Queerish Bookshop/DARLINGTON/39a Bondgate
The Queerish Bookshop
39a Bondgate DARLINGTON DL3 7JJ
map
e-mail web
Open: Saturday 11.00 - 5.00, Sunday 11.00 - 4.00
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Bookshop specialising in LGBTQ+ and radical literature. Although it mainly sells new books, it has a small second-hand section, the stock of which reflects the shop's main areas of focus. Closing down, sale now on
This shop, which opened in October 2023 in the town centre, has already made a significant impact, with a very proactive contribution to the LGBTQ+ and literary community, not least by hosting regular events - such as conversations with authors - and a monthly book club. The owner, Megan, describes the shop as "a queer and radical bookstore", but one that does stock the occasional book that may not fall into either category (the "-ish" in "Queerish"). The shop sells a wide range of fiction and non-fiction. In March it added a second-hand section as a permanent feature and, although this is still quite small, the aim is to develop it further. The shop is fully wheelchair accessible. Darlington, in marked contrast to several other large towns nearby, has quite a few bookshops - and this one is a highly distinctive and welcome addition. Booker T 10.06.24
Some bad news to report: this well-regarded "queer and radical" bookshop is to close. No date has yet been set, but it is expected to shut in either January or February. This news is particularly regrettable as it is one of only three LGBTQ+ shops in the UK that sells second-hand books. The owner, Megan, who opened the shop just over a year ago, has said: "I have made the difficult decision to shut the brick-and-mortar store for The Queerish Bookshop. While it has been managing to cover its overheads, most days the bookshop is quiet... the reality is it can't be sustained with the lack of footfall/tourism a small town like Darlington gets. Not to mention we can't compete with the prices the chain stores and conglomerates offer."
A closing down sale has begun. The shop is now open only two days a week (see above). Booker T 30.12.24
A closing date for this shop - which is open on Saturdays and Sundays only - has now been set. Its final weekend will be January 25th-26th. Booker T 14.01.25
The shop closed yesterday - one day earlier than scheduled - having served just a single customer on what turned out to be its final day. Rather a disappointing end for a very laudable enterprise. The owner, Megan, plans to continue with LGBTQ+ literary and community ventures, but sadly the Queerish Bookshop is no more. Booker T 26.01.25
Removed 26.01.25 from North East/Northumberland
Next Chapter/HEXHAM/1 King Street, Bellingham
The Next Chapter
1 King Street, Bellingham HEXHAM NE48 2AX
map
tel:
07951 667846 e-mail
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 10.30, Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday from 11.30, to at least 4.00
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Second-hand book shop also selling handmade cards and gifts.
A surprising and welcome find in a pleasant village on the North Tyne, this very modest shop is crammed full of secondhand books, as well as CDs, handmade crafts, t-shirts, bookmarks and bags. Many paperback shelves but also plenty of non-fiction, including some older items and pamphlets. It was not hard for us to find half a dozen items to purchase between us. The delightful lady owner told us she will shortly be celebrating 10 years of trading; she deserves plenty of continuing support. Wessexman 31.05.22
The shop's Facebook page announced on 10 March 2024 that sadly, following the death of the owner, Sarah, 'Unfortunately The Next Chapter will not re-open'. Mark V 01.04.24
Removed 26.01.25 from Central/Leicestershire
Book Nook/MELTON MOWBRAY/Unit 9, The Mall, 53 Nottingham Street
The Book Nook
Unit 9, The Mall, 53 Nottingham Street MELTON MOWBRAY LE13 1NN
map
tel:
07398 708237
Open: Tuesday - Friday 9.30 - 4.00, Saturday 9.30 - 3.00
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A wide range of second-hand books, including antiquarian and collectable volumes. Also some new books. The shop frontage is on Park Road, but the entrance is on Nottingham Street. The shop is in the centre of town and only a short walk from the railway station. The premises are fully wheelchair accessible.
This shop, which opened in April 2024, has about 2,500 second-hand books for sale. Very varied stock, with a wide range of fiction and non-fiction, including local history. Also children's books, comics, graphic novels, manga, as well as memorabilia/ephemera. About 30% of the books could be classed as collectable, rare or antiquarian. Second-hand books make up the vast majority of the stock, but some of the books are new. Melton Mowbray had been a book desert for quite a few years, so the presence of this shop is a very welcome development. The owner, Steven, is enthusiastic and seems to be able to source good-quality stock. Booker T 17.07.24
This shop did not survive for long, and it closed in September 2024. This is highly regrettable as it was a cut above average, with some really good stock. But the footfall in a small town like Melton Mowbray was insufficient to keep it going, alas. Booker T 26.01.25
Removed 23.01.25 from Southern/Hampshire
Twenty5books/SOUTHSEA/205 Albert Road
Twenty5books
205 Albert Road SOUTHSEA PO4 0JP
map
tel:
07756 303435 e-mail web
Open: Thursday - Saturday 12.00 - 6.30
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Was called Book Bonanza. Bargain price books from 50p to £2.
Another 'cheap and cheerful' bookshop, books from 50p to £2. Bargains to be had, I had just missed a bunch of Observer Books at 1 each. Almost 'car boot' prices! Steve Newman 28.06.11
Owned by same garrulous lady who owns no. 123 in the same road. Large paperback shop but has some hardbacks too. Nearly all modern but if you are in the area ... Norman Davies 08.04.17
Visited 12/08/21: not open. Their website - twenty5books.com - said they would be open, but I suspect this is automatically generated based on the site opening hours. They haven't been open on any of my visits going back to before the first lockdown, and they were erratic before that. Having said that, I emailed via the website contact form and got a reply from Willem (see below) within twenty minutes: he apologised and said they were having some work done on the store, and would be open again as soon as possible. I have asked him to post something on the website when they are. James Doyle 12.08.21
Darn, forgot to add the comment about Willem and ownership. Pace the older comment from someone about the same lady owning both this and 123, the lady in 123 told me last summer that 205 was run by her daughter and son-in-law (or possibly daughter-in-law and son...). The email I got from the website was signed Willem and Ann. James Doyle 12.08.21
Hi... we found this listing for our shop. The mobile number is correct, but the telephone number does not belong to us. Please, can you amend this. Thank you Anne & Wim Twenty5books 28.02.22
Drove past today and premises looked empty and closed - even the main sign had gone. Richard U 23.01.25
Removed 18.01.25 from North East/East Yorkshire
Book Nook/BRIDLINGTON/44 High Street, Old Town
The Book Nook
44 High Street, Old Town BRIDLINGTON YO16 4PX
map
e-mail
Open: Thursday - Saturday 11.00 - 3.00
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Shop opened in March 2023. Sells second-hand and new books.
Prospective visitors should note that Bridlington's Old Town is far away from the seafront - almost a half-hour uphill walk, and also quite a way from the town centre or the railway station. But the Old Town, although still rather run-down in places after years of neglect, has Georgian buildings and a nice atmosphere, with some independent and quirky shops... it's the sort of place Americans tend to describe as "quaint". As for the shop, it's been hard to get information on this one. Hope to report back in due course. Booker T 22.07.24
The shop has closed down, after almost two years. It had been open only irregularly in recent months. The owner has posted on social media: "The past year has been quite a challenge for me... I simply didn't have the energy to put into The Book Nook and keep it open as I hoped. My lease on the shop ends soon and I'm in the process of packing up and moving out." Booker T 17.01.25
Removed 07.01.25 from Southern/Dorset
Wings of War Books/PIDDLETRENTHIDE/Scotch Mist
Wings of War Books
Scotch Mist PIDDLETRENTHIDE DT2 7QG
map
tel:
07791 072309 e-mail web
Open: Viewings by appointment only
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Specialist in used military aviation books from world war 2. Rare and collectible books from the RAF, Luftwaffe, Battle of Britain and Pacific theatres. Online used aviation book store with free delivery on all items to the mainland UK.
I spoke to this seller, who told me that the company was set up in order to sell off a large family collection, and that it ceased activity "some years ago". Booker T 07.01.25
Removed 05.01.25 from Republic of Ireland/Co. Limerick
George Stacpoole Antiques//Main StreetADARECo. Limerick
George Stacpoole Antiques
Main Street ADARE Co. Limerick
e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.30.
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Antiques shop with old books and prints section.
A few books in an antique shop which is situated in a very pretentious village. A cabinet full of average non-fiction titles with prices sky-high. Chris Harte 09.11.15
The antiques and bookselling side of the business closed a few years ago as George Stacpoole was by then in his mid-80s. The premises evolved into a coffee shop run by the Stacpoole family, but that too has now closed. Booker T 04.01.25
Removed 02.01.25 from North West/Cumbria
Keswick Collectables/KESWICK/18 St Johns Street
Keswick Collectables
18 St Johns Street KESWICK CA12 5AS
map
tel:
01768 774928
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 5.00, Sunday 12.00 -5.00.
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Antiques and Collectables. Records, Books, Stamps, Etc
Reasonable sized stock on range of subjects, fiction and non-fiction, hardback and paperback, within an antiques shop. Visited occasionally over past few years, always come away with a few nice books. Don't Know 19.03.13
An annual visit for me, some excellent bargains amongst the general stock and very genial proprietors. Combined with other sellers in the town, a good way to while away a morning whilst the family go walking! Anthony 29.08.14
Perhaps the stored stock of books is thinning, but not as much as on last year's visit and I came away empty handed. Still worth a look though! Anthony 10.08.15
Must have changed contents - couldn't find any other than a few antiques centre type books. A haven for LP record collectors though. Norman Davies 29.04.16
I would not class this as bookshop, it's really just a cross between an antique and record shop. MartinR 24.03.19
Visited for first time in a few years, must agree with Norman and Martin now, NWAD Anthony 30.08.19
Visited on 28th December - if there were a couple of dozen books in there, that's as many as there were. Interesting for old vinyl, medals, the usual, but nothing for the bibliophile. Anthony 02.01.25
2024 removals
Older removals (June 2021 to December 2023)
