14 Best Bookshops in London You Can’t Miss
London is a paradise for book lovers. You’re searching for rare first editions, the latest bestsellers, beautiful coffee table books, or cosy independent bookshops, the city has something for every reader.
From historic bookstores that have served famous authors for centuries to modern shops with stylish cafés and carefully curated collections, London’s bookshop scene is one of the best in the world. Spending an afternoon browsing shelves, discovering hidden gems, and enjoying a coffee surrounded by books is one of my favourite ways to explore the city.
During my visits to London’s different neighborhoods, I’ve discovered some incredible bookstores that are worth visiting even if you aren’t planning to buy a book. Their beautiful interiors, welcoming atmosphere, and unique collections make them attractions in their own right.
Here are the 14 best bookshops in London that every book lover should visit.
1. Daunt Books Marylebone – London’s Most Beautiful Bookshop
Daunt Books is often considered the most beautiful bookshop in London, and after my first visit, it quickly became one of my favourites. Located in Marylebone, this Edwardian bookshop is famous for its stunning oak galleries, skylights, and long rows of bookshelves.
I spent well over an hour simply exploring the different sections. Unlike many bookshops, the travel books are organised by country, making it incredibly easy to discover new destinations and authors.
The peaceful atmosphere makes browsing feel relaxing, and the knowledgeable staff are always happy to recommend a good read.
Whether you’re buying a book or simply admiring the architecture, Daunt Books is a must-visit.
Highlights
- Beautiful Edwardian Interior
- Travel Book Collection
- Fiction & Non-Fiction
Address: 83 Marylebone High Street, London W1U 4QW
2. Hatchards – London’s Oldest Bookshop
Founded in 1797, Hatchards is the oldest bookshop in London and one of the most historic bookstores in the UK. Located on Piccadilly, it has welcomed generations of readers, writers, and even members of the Royal Family.
I loved the traditional atmosphere, with elegant wooden shelves and classic interiors that make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
The shop specialises in literature, history, biographies, and beautifully bound editions, making it an excellent place to find a special gift.
Highlights
- Historic Bookshop
- Signed Editions
- Beautiful Gift Books
Address: 187 Piccadilly, London W1J 9LE
3. Foyles – A Book Lover’s Paradise
Foyles on Charing Cross Road is one of the largest bookshops in London, offering thousands of books spread across multiple floors.
I visited while exploring Soho and was amazed by the enormous selection covering almost every subject imaginable. Whether you’re looking for fiction, business, travel, art, or children’s books, you’ll find it here.
The spacious layout makes browsing enjoyable, and the café upstairs is a lovely place to relax after shopping.
Highlights
- Huge Selection
- Café
- Author Events
Address: 107 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DT
4. Libreria – A Unique Reading Experience
Libreria is unlike any other bookshop in London. Located in Shoreditch, it was designed to encourage readers to disconnect from technology and focus entirely on books.
The mirrored interiors, cosy reading corners, and carefully selected titles create a calm and inspiring atmosphere.
I enjoyed browsing the unique collections, which are organised by themes instead of traditional genres, making it easy to discover books you may never have considered reading.
Highlights
- Stylish Interior
- Curated Collections
- Independent Bookshop
Address: 65 Hanbury Street, London E1 5JP
5. Word on the Water – London’s Floating Bookshop
Word on the Water is one of London’s most unique bookshops. Located on a Dutch barge along Regent’s Canal, it has become a favourite among both locals and visitors.
I stopped by while walking through King’s Cross and loved browsing the shelves inside the cosy boat. The bookshop has a charming atmosphere, with books stacked from floor to ceiling and live music sometimes taking place outside.
It’s a wonderful place to slow down, enjoy the canal views, and discover your next favourite book.
Highlights
- Floating Bookshop
- Canal Location
- Fiction & Classics
Address: Regent’s Canal Towpath, Granary Square, London N1C 4LW
6. Persephone Books – A Hidden Gem for Classic Literature
Persephone Books is one of London’s most charming independent bookshops, specialising in neglected fiction and non-fiction, particularly works by women writers from the 20th century.
I discovered this cosy shop while exploring Bloomsbury and immediately loved its calm atmosphere. Unlike larger bookstores, Persephone Books offers a carefully curated collection where every title feels thoughtfully chosen.
The iconic grey book covers have become a signature of the shop, making each purchase feel like a special keepsake.
Highlights
- Independent Publisher
- Classic Literature
- Beautiful Grey Editions
Address: 59 Lamb’s Conduit Street, London WC1N 3NB
7. John Sandoe Books – A Traditional Chelsea Favourite
John Sandoe Books has been a favourite among London’s readers for decades. Located in Chelsea, this independent bookshop is packed with books from floor to ceiling, creating a wonderfully cosy atmosphere.
I loved wandering through the narrow aisles and discovering titles I hadn’t planned to buy. The knowledgeable staff are always ready with excellent recommendations, making every visit feel personal.
If you enjoy traditional bookshops full of character, this is one you shouldn’t miss.
Highlights
- Friendly Independent Bookshop
- Expert Staff Recommendations
- Wide Fiction Collection
Address: 10 Blacklands Terrace, London SW3 2SR
8. London Review Bookshop – Perfect for Readers and Coffee Lovers
Located near the British Museum, the London Review Bookshop combines an excellent selection of books with one of the city’s most relaxing literary cafés.
I often recommend this shop to anyone spending a day in Bloomsbury. After browsing the carefully selected books, it’s the perfect place to enjoy coffee and cake in the peaceful courtyard café.
The shop regularly hosts author talks and book launches, making it one of London’s best literary destinations.
Highlights
- Literary Café
- Author Events
- Carefully Curated Books
Address: 14 Bury Place, London WC1A 2JL
9. Stanfords – The Ultimate Travel Bookshop
If you love travelling, Stanfords is a bookshop you’ll want to visit. Famous for its travel guides, maps, and adventure books, it has inspired explorers for over a century.
I visited before planning one of my own trips and found everything from hiking maps and travel memoirs to destination guides from around the world.
Even if you’re not travelling soon, it’s an inspiring place to browse and dream about your next adventure.
Highlights
- Travel Guides
- Maps & Atlases
- Adventure Books
Address: 7 Mercer Walk, London WC2H 9FA
10. Gay’s The Word – London’s Historic LGBTQ+ Bookshop
Gay’s The Word is one of London’s most important independent bookshops and has been serving the LGBTQ+ community since 1979.
Located in Bloomsbury, the shop offers an excellent collection of fiction, memoirs, history, poetry, and academic books. I found the atmosphere welcoming and inclusive, with staff who are passionate about literature and happy to help visitors find the perfect book.
Beyond being a bookshop, it has played an important role in London’s literary and cultural history, making it well worth a visit.
Highlights
- LGBTQ+ Literature
- Independent Bookshop
- Inclusive Community Space
Address: 66 Marchmont Street, London WC1N 1AB
11. Cecil Court – London’s Famous Bookshop Street
Cecil Court is not just one bookshop—it’s an entire street dedicated to books. Tucked away between Covent Garden and Leicester Square, this historic pedestrian lane is lined with independent bookshops selling everything from rare first editions to antique maps and vintage prints.
I wandered down Cecil Court one afternoon and could have easily spent hours browsing. Every shop has its own character, and there’s always something unexpected waiting on the shelves.
If you enjoy discovering rare books or simply love old-world charm, Cecil Court is one of London’s most magical places to visit.
Highlights
- Historic Bookshop Street
- Rare & Antique Books
- Independent Stores
Address: Cecil Court, London WC2N 4HE
12. Watkins Books – A Haven for Spiritual & Mindfulness Reading
Watkins Books is one of the oldest specialist bookshops in London, focusing on spirituality, philosophy, mindfulness, and world religions.
Located on Cecil Court, it’s unlike any other bookstore in the city. I was fascinated by the wide selection of books covering meditation, yoga, mythology, tarot, and personal development.
The peaceful atmosphere encourages slow browsing, and the knowledgeable staff are always happy to offer recommendations.
Whether you’re curious about Eastern philosophy or looking for an inspiring read, Watkins Books is well worth a visit.
Highlights
- Spiritual & Wellness Books
- Philosophy Collection
- Friendly Expert Staff
Address: 19–21 Cecil Court, London WC2N 4EZ
13. Any Amount of Books – A Treasure Trove for Collectors
Just a short walk from Leicester Square, Any Amount of Books is a dream destination for collectors and second-hand book lovers.
I enjoyed exploring the shelves filled with everything from affordable paperbacks to rare signed editions and vintage travel books. The shop has a cosy, traditional atmosphere that feels increasingly rare in today’s digital world.
Whether you’re hunting for a classic novel, an out-of-print title, or a unique gift, you’ll almost certainly find something interesting here.
Highlights
- Second-Hand Books
- Rare Editions
- Affordable Prices
Address: 56 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0QA
14. Skoob Books – One of London’s Best Second-Hand Bookshops
Hidden beneath the Brunswick Centre in Bloomsbury, Skoob Books is one of London’s best second-hand bookstores. With more than 50,000 books covering literature, history, science, art, and academic subjects, it’s easy to lose track of time here.
I visited while exploring Bloomsbury and loved the maze-like shelves packed with books. The prices are reasonable, and the selection changes regularly, making every visit different.
If you enjoy the thrill of finding unexpected books at great prices, Skoob Books is a must-visit.
Highlights
- Huge Second-Hand Collection
- Academic & Fiction Books
- Great Value
Address: The Brunswick Centre, London WC1N 1AE
Final Thoughts
London’s bookshops offer much more than just shelves of books—they’re places full of history, creativity, and inspiration. Whether you’re searching for the latest bestseller, a rare first edition, or simply a peaceful place to browse, there’s a bookshop to suit every type of reader.
If it’s your first time exploring London’s literary scene, I’d recommend starting with Daunt Books for its stunning Edwardian interior, Hatchards for its rich history, and Foyles for its incredible selection. For something truly unique, don’t miss Word on the Water, London’s famous floating bookshop, or spend an afternoon exploring the independent stores along Cecil Court.
From historic bookstores to hidden gems, these 14 best bookshops in London deserve a place on every reader’s itinerary.
FAQs
Which is the oldest bookshop in London?
Hatchards, founded in 1797, is London’s oldest bookshop and remains one of the city’s most iconic literary destinations.
Where can I buy second-hand books in London?
Some of the best places for second-hand books include Skoob Books, Any Amount of Books, and the independent shops along Cecil Court.
What is the most beautiful bookshop in London?
Many visitors consider Daunt Books Marylebone to be the most beautiful bookshop in London thanks to its stunning Edwardian architecture, oak galleries, and natural skylight.
Are London’s independent bookshops worth visiting?
Absolutely. Independent bookshops such as John Sandoe Books, Persephone Books, Gay’s The Word, and London Review Bookshop offer carefully curated collections, knowledgeable staff, and a much more personal experience than larger chain bookstores.
What is the most famous bookshop in London?
Daunt Books, Foyles, and Hatchards are among the most famous bookshops in London. Each offers a unique experience, from beautiful architecture to extensive book collections.
