Secondhand and Antiquarian Bookshops in the UK and Republic of Ireland
News:
Barnardo's Bookshop has closed
New bookshop The Bethany Bookshop
Peter Bell is now online only
The Bookworm Edinburgh has closed
Duncan and Reid has too few books to qualify
Open at advertised times
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Appointment necessary
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Amnesty Bookshop /EDINBURGH/12 Roseneath Street Marchmont
Amnesty Bookshop
12 Roseneath Street Marchmont EDINBURGH EH9 1JH
map
tel:
0131 221 1596 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.30 - 5.30, Sunday 11.30 - 4.30
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An extension of the literary living rooms of the book addicts and academics of Marchmont. Part of Amnesty International's small chain of charity bookshops.
First visit to this new Amnesty shop. Found 4 small items, 3 about the Glasgow area. Cost me a total of £8.50. Another small, semi-noisy wall heater above the door though. Chris K 19.01.17
Back again on Friday 26 of January. Gave a few decent second-hand Scottish books to them. Did buy a £2.50 one - 2002's 'Glasgow. The Photographic Atlas'. Already have the large London version and the Edinburgh one. Chris K 01.02.18
Spurred on by the positive comments I paid a visit here whilst up for The Fringe. Thought it had an impressive stock for a charity bookshop and prices were on the whole cheaper than Oxfam. Plenty of space to browse in. Friendly volunteer on the till. Several good cafes within a couple of minutes' walk too. Graeme Rendall 30.08.18
Still plenty to see on the well-laid out and neatly categorised shelves in this spacious shop, but maybe a little less stock than my last visit 2 years ago. Wessexman 02.09.21
This shop has a light and airy minimalist vibe. It boasts quality fitted shelving. A single deep and wide room with all stock on shelving or tables. No clutter or boxes to trip over. Artfully laid out. The size of the shop could support more volume of books but that's their choice. I arrived late in the day tired & heavily laden with books. On any other day I would have bought since there was much to tempt me. I'll be back. Once more Amnesty giving a good customer experience here. Prices found to be on the high side of reasonable. 10% discount for students. SaltaireTom 27.01.23
Several books plus a Mrs Beeton's heavier; and yet £40 lighter I staggered out having had a whale of a return visit to this Amnesty shop. Edinburghs old bibliophile attractions draw me again & again. There is little more exciting than flitting from biblio heaven to coffee shop heaven on a fine day in Auld Reekie. All facilitated by those heroic Lothian Buses drivers bless them. Note there is a substantially larger amount of biblio-serendipity in the provinces and Scotland than anything you will find in Lundun. SaltaireTom 19.01.24
Armchair Books /EDINBURGH/72-74 West Port
Armchair Books
72-74 West Port EDINBURGH EH1 2LE
map
tel:
0131 229 5927 e-mail web 
Open: Sunday - Thursday 12.30 - 5.30, Friday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.30. Last-minute changes are posted on Twitter.
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Some of our rarer and more unique books are listed on AbeBooks: https://www.abebooks.co.uk/armchair-books-edinburgh/7238158/sf We keep a wide variety of modern and antiquarian stock, including early edition Harry Potter books. Email for face covering policy and accessibility info.
Two long narrow bookshops side by side down the narrow West Port near the Grassmarket, Armchair looks a bit haphazard, particularly in comparison to some of its upmarket antiquarian neighbours, but with a large and varied stock it is well worth a look. The floor may be uneven and one of the entrances a bit too narrow but it has a lot of character as well as a lot of stock. Keep an eye out for the bookshelf in the shape of the Red Baron's plane and if you come eye to eye with a dog whilst looking at books on the lower shelves don't worry, he is just curious to see what you are looking for! Jeremy Briggs
As stated, two shops next to each other. Owner and his assistant could not have been more helpful. Good general stock. I found a lot of what I collect on the very top shelf in the second shop. Thankfully I did not have to climb the tall ladder to check what looked interesting as it was done for me with a smile and a pleasant attitude. I enjoyed my time browsing here. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Easily the best bookshop in Edinburgh. Friendly staff and owner. Chris 09.04.11
Great for fiction and history. Level pegging with the Edinburgh bookshop and McNaughtens. Herne 02.11.13
I almost didn't go in because the shop looked so small from the street, but inside I found a treasure trove of excellent old books in a shop more spacious than it appears. The staff were knowledgeable and helpful. Richard 24.04.15
Wonderful shop, comprehensively stocked and full of character. There are two rooms but the layout makes such imaginative use of the space available that it seems larger. There was a crowd of American students there during our visit and we had to QUEUE to buy our books! Fantastic to see so many people having a great time in a bookshop! TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
All one knocked-through shop, 4 packed cosy rooms, lots of books for £3.80. glenk 04.09.15
Best s/h bookshop in Edinburgh. Has to be dragged out by partner before excess spending. All older books, many subjects, comprehensive. Super. Norman D 30.10.16
I revisited this shop after some years' absence from Edinburgh. It is much as before in the range of its books and their calibre. They are, of course, more expensive than they were. There is less depth than of yore, and rather more non-descript paperbacks. The shop continues to be very popular with the young. It remains well-worth a visit if in town. The Bookman 09.05.23
A long established, venerable & casually careworn Edinburgh bookshop. Nice curb appeal as the estate agents say. Inside is a series of narrow warrens with neck-craning shelves. Watch out for the antique rug trip hazards everywhere as you gaze upwards. On the tourist circuit. I saw lots of young people here trying to find social media fame. Hokey-Cokey skills and patience needed when its busy. The huge higgledy-piggledy Scottish section is pure Gormenghast. An archaic Scottish book repository that just happens to sell its contents. High, high dusty shelves holding inaccessible obscure antiquarian sets. Think Hogwarts library before the cleaners came.(Do the cleaners ever come here?) About half the shop is huge stock of modern titles on all areas. Duplicate copies very common. Prices for all pockets. No strong feeling of serendipity here for me though. A feeling much of the stock has been here a good while. All on a single floor but not easily accessible for those with disability. SaltaireTom 15.05.23
Bethany Bookshop/EDINBURGH/33A Haddington Place
The Bethany Bookshop
33A Haddington Place EDINBURGH EH7 4AG
map
tel:
0131 561 8989
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00
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Charity bookshop of the homeless charity Bethany Christian Trust, opened in 2019.
The Bethany bookshop sits right next door to a larger general retail Bethany charity store. Continue down Leith Walk past McNaughtan's bookshop for about 200 metres. Its on your left. A large bookshop which is well stocked with mostly modern titles. Well organised & tidy with plenty of space and good light. Sells also Vinyl and CD's. Prices were very reasonable although the promoted table of Folio Society titles near the front door suffered from over optimistic appraisal. SaltaireTom 15.05.23
Cabaret/EDINBURGH/137 Westport
Cabaret
137 Westport EDINBURGH EH3 9DP
map
tel:
0191 2094093
Open: Monday - Saturday - 10.00 - 5.00.
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A Jewellery and collectables shop with a couple of cases of mainly Victorian books, and a basement full of older books.
A very nice bric-a-brac shop with just a few books on ground floor bookcases to fill up the space. Basement had a few hundred books but they were mainly pre-war and post-war fiction. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Citadel Books/EDINBURGH/41 Montrose Terrace
Citadel Books
41 Montrose Terrace EDINBURGH EH7 5DJ
map
tel:
07758 416136 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 12.30 - 5.30.
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A little bit of everything, an interesting selection including poetry and fiction, art, meditation (Sri Chinmoy) and Scottish. Some new, mostly recent secondhand, many unusual items. Run by author-poet, Alan Spence, and his wife, Janani.
No sign of life when I went past. The shop has a sign in the window. 'Closed, off to Japan! Re-opening 8th June' (2023) SaltaireTom 15.05.23
Edinburgh Books/EDINBURGH/145-147 West Port
Edinburgh Books
145-147 West Port EDINBURGH EH3 9DP
map
tel:
0131 229 4431 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00.
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Scottish books, literature, military, music, theology and travel, as well as some antiquarian.
Was West Port Books and has just reopened under new ownership. TBG 03.10.06
The owner's wonderful sense of humour livened up a most enjoyable visit. I searched through my interests while my wife's opinion was that the fiction section "was superb." The large holding of Scottish titles was eye-watering while the music and religious parts of the stock were substantial. Noted for a return visit. Chris Harte 11.06.10
I was in Edinburgh Books recently and was totally ignored. Access to browsing was denied by man who saw me trying to get to the books but would not budge. No wonder bookshops are closing. Harry Lawrence 14.03.11
I entirely endorse Chris Harte on this one. To his list I could add Classical literature, American History, Cricket, and a few more. Only real (comparative) weakness I see is general history. ECD 25.11.11
Good for poetry and music. The woman at the counter was jealous of the Van Morrison book I found but I pointed out there were two! Herne 02.11.13
Think this shop was cleaner and tidier back in its previous ownership. Why are heavy books up on high shelves not put into order? Many are far from straight. Many moons since the floors were hoovered too. The young lady at the desk was reading her tablet rather than doing some real work. Chris K 21.11.13
Agree with CK here, disagree with Mr Harte. Reasonable varied stock but value depends on you taste. Am more interested in books than personality of staff. On second visit to sell, owner made me reach over counter to retrieve books he wasn't buying. Unimpressed. David S 17.01.15
My opinion, if any thing, more pronounced! Founds some interesting Scottish items in the small specialist room, but the shelves are becoming doubled-up. Newer and quite old books mixed up together. Did find 2 such items to add to my collection. (Even went to the basement, where many books needed sorting out.) Chris K 24.02.15
This is the first time I have visited since the departure of West Port Books, a long-time favourite. I was delighted to discover the premises still in book shop use, with a fine water buffalo presiding over activities! There is plenty of stock, strongest on History and Fiction. TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
For my money the biggest and best in Edinburgh. 8 rooms on two floors, vast range, and a whole wall of books for £1. glenk 04.09.15
What a let down. Yes very full selection of Scottish and Music titles but unfortunately my topography interests were hidden behind an occupied chair (see above comments) - piles in boxes unsorted. Could be so much better. Norman D 30.10.16
Back again. Think I met, for the first time, the Northern Island man who owns this. Bought a good Glasgow architecture p/b item for £6. (One ground floor room is well sorted.) Chris K 24.06.17
Not much to complain about here! A well filled shop with something to suit most tastes, but make sure you have a full wallet before venturing inside. Wessexman 02.09.21
This West Port mainstay hits all the right notes for me and has done for many years. You will find high quality stock in just about all areas and with fairly comprehensive coverage of most subjects. Lower profile than its Armchair neighbour; less of a theatre and holding more gravitas. Your pocket will be tested in many areas of collecting here but that comes with the landscape in Edinburgh Books. Four rooms upstairs and maybe four basement rooms too. Excellent Scottish history & literature. John Buchans by the yard. Great on natural history, birds & fishing. Military, especially 20th century conflict. Climbing, exploration and travel is very good.
The basement has a whole room dedicated to music & sheet music. Another has a solid geography, world history and travel section. The religion, philosophy, spiritual area is fairly big, even room for a few £1 shelves. You can easily lose an afternoon in this place. The large vinyl & CD collection is for the owners use only.
A notice invites you to suggest an album to play - ooh please play Veedon Fleece for me? ..'a paperback book...as we walk down the street, Fill my mind with tales of mystery, mystery...
And imagination...' SaltaireTom 15.05.23
Edinburgh Community Bookshop/EDINBURGH/179-181 Great Junction Street
Edinburgh Community Bookshop
179-181 Great Junction Street EDINBURGH EH6 5LQ
map
tel:
0131 378 5589 e-mail web 
Open: Monday - Sunday 10.00 - 4.00
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Community bookshop selling donated books in aid of local charities. They 'try to sell them at a fair price that balances the goal of raising funds for local charities and making books affordable for all'. Also has a cafe
This is exactly what is claims to be. The trek from the centre of town, via Leith Walk, to Great Junction St. is necessarily long. But Leith is an interesting place. One wishes the enterprise, which is highly charitable and has few administrative overheads, all success. The Bookman 15.05.23
Elvis Shakespeare/EDINBURGH/347 Leith Walk
Elvis Shakespeare
347 Leith Walk EDINBURGH EH6 8SD
map
tel:
0131 561 1363 web
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00, Sunday 12.00 - 5.00.
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We are specialist dealers in rare vinyl and quality literature.
Not really WAD unless you collect punk, indie and dance vinyl. Idiosyncratic web site in terms of condition grading and shipping costs. Fairly average non-fiction on offer - prices reasonable. Nearly 8000 books - may be not all on display? Must get some interesting stock, from time to time? I didn't peruse the fiction. Chris K 27.07.10
My opinion not really changed after a year away. Couldn't find anything special to buy in films/music/books. Does keep the website very up-to- date with new stock. Chris K 02.08.11
Fascinatingly arranged shop near junction with Pilrig Street. Books and Music sections of equal weight, literature sorted by geographical location. glenk 04.09.15
Much more of a music shop with a smallish eclectic selection of books on the side. Wessexman 05.09.21
Ferry Fair Books/EDINBURGH/South Queensferry and Rosebery Hall
Ferry Fair Books
South Queensferry and Rosebery Hall High Street South Queensferry EDINBURGH EH30 9LL
map
e-mail web
Open: Monday - Saturday 11.00 - 4.00 (March - October only)
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Charity bookshop with small general stock raising funds for the annual Ferry Fair held each August in South Queensferry.
Gently Mad/EDINBURGH/2 Summer Place
The Gently Mad
2 Summer Place EDINBURGH EH3 5NR
map
tel:
0131 261 6028 e-mail web
Open: 7 days 11.00 - 6.00.
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In the shop above our bindery we hold an interesting selection of antiquarian and collectable books that cover a wide range of subjects. We always have a good selection of military, natural history, children's illustrated, transport, sports, folklore and legends, art, history and classic literature.
Was T & B Bookcrafts, changed ownership and name in January 2013. TBG 06.03.13
Times of change at The Gently Mad, with stock en route from the first floor to the basement. This move should be completed shortly. In the meantime, a concentrated essence is on display, illustrated books and decorative bindings of great beauty, in that small part of the shop that is not occupied by the bindery. I was in heaven! Staff were friendly and the emporium felt very accessible. Prices are high, sadly, but a visit is sheer visual joy. TravellingLibrary 01.08.15
Expanding - the owners are in the process of opening the basement, in order to relieve the rather cramped area upstairs. Richard Beaton 05.10.15
Shop has now expanded - you can go down to the basement, where I did find one Edinburgh book to add to my collection. Better condition titles are in the window but too many others not in great nick. Chris K 23.02.16
I loved this shop - chaotic with variable condition items but an excellent place to spend browsing time. Fascinating and less stuffy than many others in Edinburgh. Norman D 30.10.16
This shop is firmly in the antiquarian book trade tradition. An elegant old style private shop on the ground floor and a high quality book bindery business in the basement run by the shop owners son. It's eccentric & quirky without even trying. It has class & it has theatre. The shop counter seems suspended high on a gantry above the steps down to the bindery. It would not look amiss in Diagon Alley. Every inch of space is used. Level entry but not much free floor space within for the less abled. Crammed to the high Edinburgh ceiling with older quality & collectable stock. Strong stocks of 19th century single & multi-volume sets vie with the dust-jacketed newcomers. Where the Edinburgh charity bookshops are grain. This is a malt. But not expensive malt either - very fair prices. Worth a visit just for the learning curve - but I came away with a gem two volume set I'd sought for years. Vita bona est. SaltaireTom 26.01.23
Main Point Bookshop/EDINBURGH/77 Bread Street
Main Point Bookshop
77 Bread Street EDINBURGH EH3 9AH
map
tel:
0131 228 4837 e-mail web
Open: Monday - Wednesday 10.00 - 5.00, Thursday - Saturday 2.00 - 5.00
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An eclectic choice of books bursting with attitude. Recently moved to larger premises.
It was difficult to get too far into this cluttered shop. There were piles of books everywhere with modern fiction appearing to dominate. There were no definitive sections or groupings. Until there is a clean-up it is not really worth a visit. Chris Harte 11.06.10
I can happily report that the shop has recently been cleaned up and it is now much easier to find things. Always worth a look and prices are very moderate. Ken Bogle 30.03.11
Now this is in good order with a decent range of stock. Found a reasonably priced, uncommon art book to buy. Will be returning. Chris K 21.11.13
I run Main Point Books and would like to point out that the first comment here, from Chris Harte, refers to our previous, small premises. When we moved I requested that the comment be taken down, but no such luck! Now we have a lovely sunny shop, and many sunny customers who enjoy browsing our stock. We also host events, generate paper sculptures, and have learned to shrug at the slings and arrows. Jennie Renton 03.07.14
Having read Jennie's comments (above) I looked at Google Streetview and saw for myself that her description of the new premises is quite correct. My original review is now part of history and I hope to visit the new shop whenever I can. I must add that my purchases from Jennie in the past (at yet another different location) were of the highest quality. I'm sure nothing has changed in that regard. Chris Harte 08.07.14
Bought 4 South London railway books to add to my growing collection. (Lines I used many times back in the '60s and '70s.) Cheap too compared to Barterbooks in Alnwick. Bring some cash as they can't accept credit nor debit cards. Chris K 24.02.15
A curiously shaped emporium, resembling a wedge of cheese, but very well organised and with very attractive stock. Prices are surprisingly moderate for the location. Well worth a visit. TravellingLibrary 01.08.15
Currently located just round the corner at the end of the line of West Port bookshops - don't miss it. glenk 04.09.15
Lovely smallish shop, nice lady on counter. Bought a few titles at very decent prices unlike the over pricing of some other famed Edinburgh shops. Norman D 30.10.16
Bought 3 more nice Middleton Press railway items to add to my collection. £19 not out. (Good lady owns this.) Chris K 24.06.17
Seems to have remained closed post-pandemic. Neighbours say 'for technical reasons'. Wessexman 02.09.21
This shop is definitely open once again. I visited on a Sunday, and there it was. The stock is as good as ever - on average better than that of Armchair Books, and certainly cheaper on average too. Engaging owner. The Bookman 09.05.23
McNaughtan_s Bookshop/EDINBURGH/3a - 4a Haddington Place
McNaughtan's Bookshop
3a - 4a Haddington Place EDINBURGH EH7 4AE
map
tel:
0131 556 5897 web
Open: Monday - Wenesday, Friday - Sunday 11.00 - 5.00, Thursday 11.00 - 8.00. Earlier by appointment
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We have a large general second-hand and antiquarian stock including books on the fine arts, architecture, children's books, literature, history, music, travel, topography, natural history, cookery and gardening. Within the shop is a small gallery space with a rolling programme of exhibitions of the work of contemporary artists. The exhibition space can be rented and you are referred to our website for terms and conditions.
This bookshop is Edinburgh at its best. The shelves are groaning with quality and I was amazed at the runs which were being offered for sale. I spent just over two hours here when, in all honesty, it should have been longer. The prices were very fair and I had no hesitation in parting with quite a lot of money in exchange for some very collectable titles. Visit highly recommended. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Specialities include Scottish, literature, history and visual arts. Has changed since my last visit in that there's now a small gallery area with paintings by the owner Elizabeth Strong on display. Tantalisingly a lot of white plastic bags at the foot of the shelves: new stock waiting to be processed. Staffed by a young American chap. (I spent £3.50) Chris K 27.07.10
Down some steep steps into an extensive basement premises. Probably one of the 2 best rare and second-hand bookshops in Edinburgh. (Just opposite a good s-h vinyl/cd/dvd seller in Elm Row.) Found 2 good cheap, local history p/backs and an unusual French art history title. WAD. Chris K 02.08.11
The moment you walk in that lovely smell of a quality bookshop, a proper bookshop, interesting books, bargains known, friendly staff, Edinburgh's finest in my view. PaulP 14.08.13
Missed it on my first walk past! Glad I found it because it is full of interesting volumes. And a great music shop just over the road. Herne 02.11.13
I have been visiting this place for the past forty years and it is still by far the best secondhand / antiquarian bookshop in Edinburgh. Great art section with an impressive collection of old exhibition catalogues. Large children's section and great Scottish section. A place of pilgrimage for all serious book collectors. Oor Wullie 26.07.14
All the other comments are still quite right. But I must add some praise for those who work there: civilised, knowledgeable, friendly, they're as much Edinburgh at it's best as are the shop and its stock. James Mackay 22.11.14
One of my 2 favorite Edinburgh bookshops. A wide range of prices from a few pounds up to many hundreds, but all excellent quality. It seems this shop only sells the best of the best an honest prices based upon condition and rarity. Richard 24.04.15
Spoke to the nice lady assistant to learn that the shop owner Elizabeth Strong is retiring at the end of the month. It's being taken over by a Blackwell's Oxford Bookshop guy and his partner.The lady I spoke to was being made redundant and finished that day ... All the available stock now out for sale - did manage to find a very good copy of 'London's Railways From The Air'. [Have vivid memories about local stations and steam loco sheds I knew very well.] Chris K 10.07.15
I have visited this shop many, many times over the years and have always considered it one of Edinburgh's great treats. The Architecture section is a little smaller now that the Gallery has taken much of its space, but is still an excellent offering and largely modestly priced. I wish Elizabeth well in her retirement with her paints and easel. There will be an exhibition of her work at the shop soon. As for Macnaughtans, I expect the old-established name will stay but anticipate a change of ethos and atmosphere in the near future. TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
Very pleased to catch the old shop in its final week. 5 good rooms, spent hours and found a bagful for less than £20. best wishes for the retirement; fingers crossed for the new management. glenk 04.09.15
New owners Derek Walker and Anna Fomicheva, formerly of Blackwells in Oxford. Met DW on my first return. Had a good look round and could only find a £2 item to purchase. Some of the shelves now need the books kept better sorted. There are gaps since my last visit though 37 new boxes of art etc. waiting to be added. Chris K 23.02.16
Books now well sorted, nicely presented and well shelved. A cross between antiquarian and general s/h, this is a must for the general collector (ie me). Beware it is difficult to find - look down into the basement off the main road pavement! Norman D 30.10.16
After 5pm on 23rd December the shop will close for the holiday period and necessary restoration works on our ceiling. We will re-open on 23rd January at 11am with a new exhibition in the gallery. Chris K 15.01.18
Disappointingly, I was dismissed brusquely by the owner/assistant when I enquired about my favoured subjects, seemingly because the postman took preference. Courtesy doesn't cost a lot even in these challenging times. Wessexman 22.09.19
McNaughtan's now has fuller opening hours. It is open seven days, 11:00-17:00, except Thursdays when it is open till 20:00; and visits before 11:00 can be arranged.
The contents of the shop are at a high level for quality and price. The collection of Scottish books is the best I have seen anywhere outside an institutional library, esp. for STS. The other stock leans noticeably towards literature at present, but such things depend very much on what people or their executors happen to offer.
McNaughtan's remains an Edinburgh institution of the first importance in its line. I can add that the welcome is warm. The Bookman 15.05.23
Oxfam Book Shop/EDINBURGH/25 Raeburn Place
Oxfam Book Shop
25 Raeburn Place EDINBURGH EH4 1HU
map
tel:
0131 332 9632 web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 5.30, Saturday 10.00 - 5.30, Sunday 11.00 - 5.00.
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A medium sized charity bookshop, and the largest of the six in Edinburgh, it has the best selection of stock and is only a few minutes walk from the Shelter bookshop on the same road. - Jeremy Briggs.
A typical charity bookshop selling material of a most general nature. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Edinburgh secondhand bookshops are not only plentiful, but conveniently arranged in clusters, as here in Raeburn Place. There is an online map dedicated to promoting 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' through info on suitable shops. All the charity shops, including bookshops, are featured, along with vintage emporia etc. This Oxfam shop is always worth a visit; it is well-stocked and reasonably priced. TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
Very good spacious charity bookshop among a string of general charity shops on Raeburn Place. Bohemian part of town so books are decent donations, not run-of-the-mill. glenk 04.09.15
The largest of the 3 Edinburgh Oxfam book shops. A while since I bought anything there so pleased to find 3 small items which cost less than £6. Chris K 23.02.16
Tried again on 24/06/16 with no luck. However returned on the 7th of September and did find an unusual railway book for just £3.99. Chris K 09.09.16
Sorry but to me this was a standard overpriced Oxfam. Decent stock but nothing to jump out - note like others my location means I can only visits shops say once a year so can't make repeat visits. My luck must have been out. Ordinary. Norman D 30.10.16
Standard Oxfam set-up here in a roomy shop with two large window displays. Single step to gain entry then level. Strong on all things Scottish as you'd expect. Prices quite reasonable. Opening times unchanged. Stock plentiful. Nothing here for me today but definite potential for others on a good day no doubt. Happy hunting. SaltaireTom 28.01.23
A return visit one year on confirms the opportunity to find your hearts desire remains at the same level. A well run shop still providing a strong collectables shelf. Not many Welsh books. SaltaireTom 19.01.24
Oxfam Bookshop/EDINBURGH/116 Nicolson Street
Oxfam Bookshop
116 Nicolson Street EDINBURGH EH8 9EJ
map
tel:
0131 667915 web
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A small charity bookshop which includes CDs, DVDs and some comics in its stock, it can be a bit of a squeeze to get around at busy times. About 5 minutes walk from Barnardo's in Clerk Street and Till's Bookshop in Hope Park Crescent. Jeremy Briggs
This small but well run Oxfam deserves more than just the first comment here... Often drop in to one of the best Old Town charity shops. This time the front window had lots of quality collectable fiction to gaze at. Found 2 good local area Scottish postcard pamphlets. Friendly staff too. Chris K 24.02.15
Again I must have been unlucky as my visit revealed a bog standard Oxfam. Sadly I did fancy an old title but the price (I was told it was "taken from the computer") was pure ABE books. Norman D 30.10.16
Back again on the 15th of March. Found an interesting item for only £3.49. Chris K 25.03.17
I'll echo the comments about it being a bit of a squeeze at times. The alcoves in the non-fiction sections are really just suitable for one person at a time. Good range of titles though but at the usual slightly eyebrow raising Oxfam prices. Graeme Rendall 30.08.18
The smallest of Edinburgh's Oxfam outlets. All shelves full & space utilized well. A very good selection of collectable books near the desk. Be content that Oxfam's appraisal & pricing policy in this store provides for no hidden gems. The volunteer behind the till dealing beautifully with a little girls Harry Potter enquiry. We are after all in the vicinity. I can't help leaving Nicolson Street without recalling the past delights of Blackwell's second-hand department down the road on South Bridge. SaltaireTom 15.05.23
This remains a quite small and 'competitively' priced Oxfam clone with a strong shelf with premium prices by the pay desk. Worthy of a visit in case you are attracted to the six or so general charity shops in the immediate vicinity. God Bless Oxfam. SaltaireTom 19.01.24
Oxfam Bookshop/EDINBURGH/210 Morningside Road
Oxfam Bookshop
210 Morningside Road EDINBURGH EH10 4QQ
map
tel:
0131 446 9169 web
Open: Monday - Friday 9.30 - 5.00, Saturday 9.30 - 4.00, Sunday 1.00 - 4.00
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A small charity bookshop with Oxfam's typically good selection of books, barely a minutes walk from the Hospice Bookshop just down the road. - Jeremy Briggs.
It was really only the few titles in the 'Old Books' section which were worth observing. The rest of the shop's stock was somewhat general. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Shop interesting, but prices really too high - particularly for a charity shop. Would buy more there if prices were fairer - as it is, I just browse Chris 09.04.11
I agree with Jeremy Briggs on this one. I live just along the road from this shop, visit it almost daily, buy from it frequently, and also donate my own surplus to it. Prices seem not out of line with other such shops in town. ECD 25.11.11
Not a particularly large shop, but a good size and packed with interest, all at very reasonable prices indeed. Friendly, helpful staff and attractive well-organised books made for a very enjoyable and productive visit. TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
Back here on 15th March. Looking at most of the non-fiction - but too many needed putting back straight. The manager should get these sorted! Chris K 25.03.17
Easier to browse than the cramped Nicholson Street branch. A pretty average Oxfam outlet. Wessexman 02.09.21
A long bus ride out south from Princes Street brings us to the delights of Morningside. Crammed with pleasures in itself and home to a small-ish sized Oxfam bookshop tucked on a corner of the very High Street. A small window display. Inside also some vinyl I recall. A bit tight for space, though not by Nicholson Street branch standards. Perfectly good shop but no revelations here for me. The street has many other charitable book buying opportunities and other independent shops especially of the coffee and cake variety. I should like to thank here my sponsor and financial backer of this Edinburgh trip - a certain M Thatcher whose fine condition signed first edition was found in the vicinity. Thank you Margaret ;-) SaltaireTom 28.01.23
Royal Mile Gallery/EDINBURGH/272 Canongate
Royal Mile Gallery
272 Canongate EDINBURGH EH8 8AA
map
tel:
0131 558 1702
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Prints and maps only.
They do not sell books any longer. Nice prints and maps though. Alan Huyton 15.09.18
Shelter Bookshop/EDINBURGH/106 Raeburn Place
Shelter Bookshop
106 Raeburn Place EDINBURGH EH4 1HH
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tel:
0131 315 0221 e-mail
Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 6.00, Sunday 11.00 - 5.00
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A small charity bookshop with perhaps the most varied stock of the six charity bookshops in Edinburgh. A well stocked bookshop, it has a motley and rather disorganised selection of magazines and British & American comics. They would sell more of these if they only took the time to organise them properly. It is only a few minutes walk from the Oxfam bookshop on the same road. Jeremy Briggs
A very disorganised shop with people just milling around and children playing with magazines which had been stuffed into boxes. The books were very ordinary modern publications. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Mr. Harte's views are rather unfair and not characteristic of this shop. He must have been unlucky in his timing. I usually find something of a bargain to buy but not yet among the older titles at the rear. It is worth a visit and the Shelter shops next door have above average clothes, videos, dvds, cds and vinyl. Chris K. 14.03.11
I agree with Chris K. Like all charity shops, the trick is to make regular visits. This shop has a rapidly changing window display and often has good review copies and recently published stuff. It's not really geared to the antiquarian collector but perfectly fine for the casual browser of limited means. Other charity shops nearby. Ken 09.04.11
Back today and found 2 very good items at decent prices. Also browsed the next door shop with some more books, clothes, dvds and records. Found a good cheap New Orleans cd. While paying for this, I saw the poster stating that last year Shelter Stockbridge raised £476,125. Chris K 08.02.14
Agree CK that regular visits repay. Best Penguin stock in Edinburgh apart from McNaughtans and found several out of print "wants" here. Cannot be compared with private shops who can pick and choose their stock. David S 17.01.15
This shop is always interesting to visit and the staff display the stock in an attractive manner, more akin to a traditional secondhand bookshop. We always find several things to buy. If you can only visit one charity bookshop in Edinburgh, make it this one! TravellingLibrary 01.08.15
Visited during 2015 Festival, this was an ordinary charity shop with if anything fewer books than others in the same street. Good Oxfam bookshop nearby. glenk 04.09.15
Could do with a newer top wall heater - it's rather noisy and too loud. There's lots of Scottish non-fiction items but they are all mixed up. (The fiction stock is kept in good alphabetical order though.) Chris K 23.02.16
Donated over 40 p/b fiction items, mostly 1950's, on 7th September. My late brother's collection. Had bought a small item back there in June and now got a good 1994 paperback about the 'Glasgow Art Gallery and Museum'. Only £3. Chris K 09.09.16
Best charity shop I came across in Edinburgh. Unlike other reviewers I am not local so can only judge on a one-off: this was the nearest I have seen to an old fashioned s/h shop and the prices were sooo much more reasonable than the large charity chain opposite. Bought a small bagful. Norman D 30.10.16
In winter again much too hot in this shop. The old man working there, with his slim half jumper and summer style of shoes with no socks, was a problem. All the other many local charity shops were not hot. Had to take 2 of my outfits off while looking around, but nothing special to buy. Left early. Chris K 22.12.16
Back again on the 17th of May. Bought a £5 copy of the hardback "MONET IN THE 20TH CENTURY". Chris K. 18.05.18
Lots of new stock arriving as I browsed and seems to have a good turnover in this very pleasant Northside suburb. Many rolled up maps and plans greet you inside the entrance. I had to wait outside briefly because of social distancing requirements. Wessexman 02.09.21
A beautiful window display draws you in to this shop. The window prices for their best stuff should not deter entry. Things are more affordable inside. You have a single long room with level access. Well lit and warm on this freezing winter morning. A good range of stock no doubt but I can't say for certain. My aim to browse the military, history and travel sections was completely thwarted by dozens of heavy black crates stacked up high along the full length of the shops central shelves. Voltaire & Rousseau syndrome - couldn't get to the stock. Came away with nothing. What can I say - see you next year then. The consolation is Raeburn Place in the Stockbridge area is full of retail & coffee shop interest & has an Oxfam bookshop and several charity shops just down the street. SaltaireTom 25.01.23
St Columba_s Hospice Bookshop/EDINBURGH/14-15 Brandon Terrace
St Columba's Hospice Bookshop
14-15 Brandon Terrace EDINBURGH EH3 5EA
map
tel:
0131 552 3994 web
Open: Open: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 4.00.
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Situated on a corner by Heriot's Rugby Club. Fitted out and newly decorated by volunteers. Shelves of books easy to examine as they are laid out neatly and in disciplined rows. Nothing antiquarian or collectable, just easy reading titles. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Goldenacre district - on the right near the top of Inverleith Row, less than 1/2 a mile beyond the other 3 Canonmills shops. Very well set out; better than their former Morningside book shop. Above average charity stock. Found one nice cheap item. Currently some attractive watercolour paintings on offer too. Chris K 16.08.14
Charming charity bookshop well worth the trip beyond the Botanical Gardens to find. Lots of good books for one or two pounds, as well as pricier. good children's section. glenk 04.09.15
his shop re-located in the last month and can now be found at 14-15 Brandon Terrace, EH3 5EA, adjacent to one of the Canonmills bus stops. Inside it was bright, spacious and well-stocked, with a large back room and helpful staff. Opening times seem unchanged. Wessexman 22.09.19
This continues to be one of Edinburgh's best charity bookshops. Two large rooms and a smaller connecting one, well stocked and with a few surprises on the 'Recently arrived' shelf. Well recommended. Wessexman 02.09.21
A delight to look round. My favourite of the six Edinburgh bookshops covered today. Large, spacious, warm and well lit. A tiny doorstep up then level throughout with 3 rooms in which to swing cat & a wheelchair. Maybe the best value bookshop in town. Large stock with a good balance of subject matter. Opening times still correct. A great example of a charity shop getting the basics right. Hopefully gone are the days of book hunters entering cramped premises, (if they ever opened) carrying a torch, a ball of twine and a hot water bottle.( Caveat - see Gently Mad). SaltaireTom 26.01.23
Wonderfully kind & dedicated volunteers enhance the visit here. A place where magic sometimes happens. Always fresh & interesting things to look at at sensible prices. Once again I'd say this was the best second-hand bookshop in the city for its vibrancy. SaltaireTom 19.01.24
Till_s Bookshop/EDINBURGH/1 Hope Park Crescent
Till's Bookshop
1 Hope Park Crescent EDINBURGH EH8 9NA
map
tel:
0131 667 0895 web
Open: Monday - Friday 12. 00 - 7.30, Saturday 11 - 6.00, Sunday 12.00 - 5.30.
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Established in 1986, Till's Bookshop has become an institution with generations of Edinburgh students, their teachers and locals alike.
A friendly, medium sized, well organised bookshop split over two rooms at the east end of the Meadows, Tills has bookshelves rising up to a near vertigo inducing height and, on cold days, an open fire in the back room. Along with a good general selection of books, a big science fiction and fantasy section, and a very interesting section of film and television books, it always has original 1950s and 1960s film posters for sale, plus a varying selection of movie magazines and, at times, Front Of House stills. Around since the mid-1980s, the shop has survived the opening of two charity bookshops within 5 minutes walk. If you have only time to visit one secondhand bookshop in Edinburgh, make it Tills. Jeremy Briggs
I am afraid I will have to completely disagree with Jeremy Briggs about giving priority to this bookshop. It would be very low on my Edinburgh list. It was on my third attempted visit I found out that opening time was usually after midday, a fact which might have helped me had it been advertised in the window. I found the holdings to be generally uninteresting and more to the whim of the North American owner. Little good British material. Chris Harte 11.06.10
Harte has dyspepsia again. I have been visiting this excellent bookshop since 1970, and have made many good, cheap purchases. Brian 14.06.11
Till's has a fantastic atmosphere and a very varied and interesting collection of books, of all genres. It is particularly strong on sci-fi and fantasy, but 20th-century fiction, classics and history are also very well-represented. The prices are extremely good value and the owner is a lovely Canadian character called Rick. They also stock lots of interesting vintage comic books which make great presents. Support this shop! Toni B 09.01.15
A very pleasant shop to visit. Two rooms and a cubby hole for the bookseller, with lots of character. Smallish but interesting stock, strongest on Fiction / Literature / Comics / Film (Inc. original posters), but all subjects represented. TravellingLibrary 08.08.15
Fun bookshop. lots of fiction in front room, fair range of non-fiction out back, good poetry section. 50p boxes outside. glenk 04.09.15
Back again on 6th of May '17. Bought another good non-fiction item, for £10. Nice young lady working there, after graduating. Chris K 13.05.17
Although I didn't find anything to suit my tastes, this is a pleasantly laid out shop over two rooms with lots of non-fiction stock in the back. Possibly a little too dark for my failing eyesight in one of the alcoves! Wessexman 04.09.21
The saying goes "time spent in reconnaissance is never wasted". This shop was closed when visited. The window note says reopening after winter break in late January 2024. Only one previous review on TBGII but the vibes were good when I gazed in. This shop is known to me of old. A look through the keyhole (and the large window!), shows a well ordered and replete stock. Put it on your list. SaltaireTom 19.01.24
