As I embrace my inner main character and try to romanticize my London life, nothing fits the bill quite like browsing London’s most beautiful bookshops on a crisp autumnal day. London has such a rich literary history, and there’s something special about browsing for books in a gorgeous bookstore in the home of Dickens, Orwell, Chaucer, Blake and Woolf.
I’m also trying to kick my Amazon habit, so why not stick one to Bezos while exploring London’s very pretty literary destinations? Sorry, Jeff.
The next time you need a new read, why not pop into one of these? They are a few of my favourite, and in my opinion, the most beautiful bookshops in London.
Just off Marylebone High Street, you’ll find Daunt Books in all its Edwardian glory. With long oak galleries, winding staircases, and graceful skylights, Daunt is sure to be a favourite of any bookworm. The shop specializes in travel books, so be sure to stock up before your next adventure or simply for inspiration. Don’t forget to buy one of their signature tote bags while you’re there!
Location: Marylebone
Fun fact: one of my first dates with my boyfriend was at Hatchards, so it holds a special place in my heart. Located only a few blocks away from the chaos of Piccadilly Circus, Hatchards is the oldest bookshop in the UK and the official bookshop of the Royal Household. It’s also home to many rare books and first editions. Perfect date location, if you ask me.
Location: Piccadilly
Is there anything more whimsical than a quirky bookshop on a canal barge? Just around the corner from Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross, you’ll find Word on the Water bookshop floating on Regent’s canal. Every nook and cranny is packed with new and used books from classics to cult titles. They also host live events like slam poetry, so it’s the perfect stop for any canal wander.
Location: King’s Cross
Hidden away in the heart of Soho, Second Shelf is a feminist bookshop tucked in Smith’s Court. The shop focuses on books by women including rare books, manuscripts and first editions. They’re moving soon, so keep an eye out for their new location.
Location: Soho
Just off the King’s Road, you’ll find John Sandoe and its two floors packed to the brim with books. The independent bookshop was founded in 1957, carries a wide selection of titles and features super friendly and knowledgeable staff. The shop has counted Keith Richards, Lucien Freud and Tom Stoppard as regulars, so you’ll join a very chic legion of fans.
Location: Chelsea
Happy reading!