Best Bookshops in London: Independent Bookstores, Secondhand Gems and Magical Shops to Explore
If you’ve been around here or my Instagram a while, you’ll know I LOOOOOVE books and bookshops and coffee ships with a book, etc. So this post feels overdue.
London is one of the best cities in the world for book lovers. From historic independent bookshops to grand multi level stores, specialist booksellers, secondhand treasure troves and even occult and witchcraft shops, there is a bookshop here for every reader. Whether you want a beautiful space to browse, a cosy spot for a new read or somewhere niche like a travel bookstore, this guide covers the very best bookshops in London that every reader should visit. I started it with a list of about 10 and now here we are with nearly 30!
The Most Famous Bookstores in London
London’s not a place where you find many massive stores like in the US but we do have some iconic bookshops spanning several floors where you can find all kinds of genres and different languages. And these are some of them:
Waterstones Piccadilly
Waterstones Piccadilly is the biggest bookstore in London and one of the largest in Europe. Housed inside the former Simpsons department store, the building dates back to the 1930s and still has an elegant Art Deco feel. With six floors of books, a café and even a champagne bar, it is easy to lose track of time here. There’s a big travel section, a decent foreign language selection and the fiction floors are full of staff recommendations.
In my uni days when I used to work as a nanny I used to take the little kid there a lot to hop on the beanbags and read for a little while…something for everyone! (It also has decent bathrooms if you’re ever in the area and in need 😅)
Daunt Books Marylebone
You’ve probably seen Daunt Books on the socials more than once… it’s really popular and widely considered the most beautiful bookshop in London. Built inside an Edwardian building with high oak balconies and stained glass windows, it looks a little like a set from a period drama. The travel section is arranged by country/regions which means you can browse novels, memoirs and travel guides about a destination all in one place. Daunt is not only iconic but also hugely influential and many London bookshops have followed its style of curated shelving.
They have other branches around town too like Notting Hill, Holland Park and Hampstead.
Foyles Charing Cross Road
Foyles began in 1903 with two siblings who sold secondhand books on a stall. The bookshop eventually became famous for its chaotic layout and endless collections. It has since moved into a sleek, modern building yet remains one of the most comprehensive bookstores in London. Its poetry, philosophy and art sections are especially strong. Foyles was once listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest bookshop which gives you an idea of its legacy.
The language section is incredible! I can’t even remember how many different ones you can find on that floor… Greek, Tagalog, Korean, Portuguese <3…you name it! They also have a great cafe on the top floor. I’ve worked from there before and enjoyed it but it does get busy and it’s priceeey.
Independent and Specialist Bookshops in London
John Sandoe Books, Chelsea
Founded in the 1950s, John Sandoe Books is a labyrinth of narrow rooms near Sloane Square and still retains the feel of a mid-century literary den. Every surface is stacked with beautifully curated books chosen by knowledgeable (and super friendly!) staff. The shop has long been a favourite of writers, editors and publishers who come here for inspiration. It is well known for its signed editions and for stocking titles you will struggle to find in mainstream shops.
I had a little day out around Belgravia/Chelsea recently and spent a little while browsing their collection and walking through their creaky floors. Very mindful, very demure.
Nomad Books, Fulham
Nomad Books is one of West London’s most loved independents. It has been around since the 1980s and has built a reputation for warm customer service and excellent recommendations. Their children’s section is particularly good and they host regular events with authors and illustrators. When I first moved to London as an au pair, I used to live just a few steps away from it and used to visit all the time with the kids! The store feels bright and modern with a neighbourhood charm that makes people loyal for years.
Books on the Rise, Richmond
A newer addition to London’s indie scene, Books on the Rise quickly became a Richmond favourite thanks to its beautifully designed interior and thoughtful curation. It focuses on literary fiction, contemporary writing, non fiction and poetry. The shop’s visual merchandising is stunning which makes browsing both relaxing and inspiring. They also host various events, have opened a record store and are located in one of the most beautiful areas of London!
BookBar, Islington and Chelsea
BookBar is a friendly, community-driven independent bookstore with two vibrant London outposts: one in Islington (North London) and a newer branch in Chelsea. The shop combines a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction and children’s books with a laid-back café/wine bar vibe depending on the time of day. You can browse thoughtfully selected titles by indie publishers, enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine and often catch author talks or literary events which gives the space a warm community feel. For anyone who loves to read slowly, meet like-minded book lovers or just discover under-the-radar titles it’s a gem that feels like part cosy library part neighbourhood hang-out. If I remember correctly, they’ve even hosted a singles event this year!
The Open Book, Richmond
Opened in 1981, The Open Book is a traditional, cosy and tightly curated bookshop that feels like stepping back into a more peaceful time. It has a loyal local following and a long history of championing emerging writers. The shelves are packed with classics, modern fiction and a strong range of children’s books. And again, one of the most beautiful areas of London. You can pick up a new book there then walk around the corner down Water Lane to sit on the riverside and read it. Great spots around to pick up a snack and a drink too like Chango for empanadas and Knoops for a hot chocolate!
Foster Books, Chiswick
Foster Books is one of the most visually striking bookshops in London thanks to its seventeenth century building and traditional green frontage. The shop specialises in rare books, antiquarian editions, first prints and unusually bound volumes. Inside you will find old London maps, Victorian hardbacks and collectable classics. It is a dream for anyone who loves vintage books.
Gay’s The Word, Bloomsbury
Opened in 1979, Gay’s The Word is the UK’s oldest LGBTQ+ bookshop and a hugely important cultural landmark. It has played a key role in London’s queer history including hosting political meetings, book launches and community events. The shop stocks queer fiction, non fiction, poetry and children’s books and has one of the best selections of LGBTQ+ literature in the country. A true gem!
The Notting Hill Bookshop, Notting Hill
Although often mistaken for the bookshop seen in the film Notting Hill, this charming independent has become a tourist favourite because of its beautiful blue façade and cosy interior. It has a strong travel section and a warm, friendly selection of modern fiction and classics. It is one of the most photographed shops in West London. It’s not the one in the movie as that bookshop didn’t exist BUT this one like to cosplay as such and I say “why not?!”. Give the people what they want!
Saucy Books, Westbourne Park
Saucy Books is London’s first dedicated romance bookshop and a joyful addition to the city’s indie scene. The shelves are packed with everything from cosy romcoms to spicy romantasy, sapphic love stories and classic happily ever afters so readers can browse a huge range of love stories in one place. The shop focuses on inclusive, modern romance and champions diverse authors and tropes, making it a safe and fun space for readers who want books that feel comforting, emotional and sometimes a little bit chaotic in the best way. Regular events, book clubs and launch parties give it a strong community feel and make Saucy Books a must visit for romance readers in London.
Of Books and Love, Islington
Of Books and Love is another of London’s newest romance-only bookshops and already feels like a little haven for readers who adore love stories in every form. It’s such a massive genre that brings so much joy to people, the more the merrier! Its bright, welcoming space specialises in contemporary romance, chic lit, romantasy and LGBTQ+ love stories with a strong focus on joyful escapism. The curation mixes viral BookTok favourites with indie gems and beautifully designed special editions which makes browsing feel like wandering through a curated romance library. The staff are warm and genuinely enthusiastic about the genre and the shop often hosts themed events, author meet-ups and community hangouts that make it feel more like a clubhouse for romance readers than a traditional bookshop.
Word on the Water, King’s Cross
Another Insta-favourite! Word on the Water is London’s floating bookshop and definitely the most unique. The shop is housed on a 1920s Dutch barge and moored near Granary Square. It sells new and secondhand books and often has live music or poetry readings on the rooftop deck. It is atmospheric, surprising and a must visit for any book lover. Before the pandemic my office used to be just up the road so I used to spend many lunch breaks sitting there with my food and a podcast. Lots of great food and walks nearby for a fun day out!
Libreria, Shoreditch
Gorgeous East London bookshop, Libreria is known for its curved yellow shelves and its unconventional arrangements. Books are grouped by themes rather than genre to encourage unexpected connections. There is a no phone policy which makes browsing feel immersive and intentional.
Burley Fisher Books, Dalston
A contemporary independent bookshop focused on small presses, poetry, experimental writing and literary fiction. Burley Fisher hosts brilliant events and readings that draw in London’s creative scene. It has a modern, artsy feel that fits its East London neighbourhood perfectly.
Pages of Hackney, Lower Clapton
Opened in 2008, Pages of Hackney has become a community hub for readers in East London. It has a strong focus on inclusive literature, politics, feminism and contemporary fiction. The basement holds a secondhand section and the shop regularly hosts book clubs and author talks.
Morocco Bound, Bermondsey
Morocco Bound is a vibrant indie bookshop nestled on a quiet street just off Bermondsey Street and it’s more than just a place to buy books. By day it runs as a bookshop, café and casual co-working space; by night it transforms into a lively events venue, bar and community hub. You’ll find curated selections of contemporary fiction, translated works and small-press gems alongside local Bermondsey beers and cocktails.
The shop regularly hosts film nights, poetry readings, live jazz, open-mic sessions and book club meetings, which has helped build a loyal and creative community around it. The building’s bright green shutters and fairy-lit terrace make it easy to spot at 1A Morocco Street SE1 3HB and the atmosphere is on point!
Best Secondhand Bookshops in London
Hurlingham Books, Putney and Fulham
Hurlingham Books is London’s oldest independent secondhand bookshop. It opened in 1961 and the founder, Ray Cole, famously stockpiled thousands of books over his lifetime which still fill the shop’s cavernous back rooms. The storefront is humble but inside it is a maze of rare finds, vintage editions and bargain classics. The shop even supplied books for film sets including The Bourne Ultimatum.
Walden Books, Camden
Walden Books is a charming indie located just off Camden High Street. It has been serving the community since the 1970s and focuses on fiction, politics, local interest books and poetry. Inside, it has a slightly bohemian feel that suits Camden perfectly. During Spring it’s covered in beautiful wisteria!!
Skoob Books
One of London’s best secondhand bookshops, Skoob sits hidden under the Brunswick Centre and houses more than fifty thousand academic books. The shelves are chaotic but categorised in a way that encourages treasure hunting. You will find philosophy titles next to obscure poetry collections and academic texts. It is the kind of place you visit for one book and possibly leave with five.
Any Amount of Books, Charing Cross Road
Located near the West End, this shop specialises in rare, secondhand and antiquarian books. Its outdoor bargain boxes are part of its charm and often contain unexpected gems. Inside, the ground floor holds modern and classic fiction while the basement holds a treasure trove of older and more unusual finds.
Can I just point out that one of the most viral street food spots in London is right there a few steps away? I know I always mention food, I can’t help it and you’re welcome 😅
READ MORE: All the Foods You Must Eat in London: Famous Foods, Viral Snacks and Iconic Spots
Southbank Centre Book Market
Set beneath Waterloo Bridge, this open air book market is one of the longest running in London. It is open daily between 10am-5:30pm and has a beautifully atmospheric riverside setting. You can browse vintage paperbacks, art books, old maps, prints, photography books, secondhand novels and even records! Another quite unique stop on our tour of best bookshops in London.
Best Travel Bookshops in London
Stanfords, Covent Garden
Stanfords is the most famous travel bookshop in London and has been a favourite of explorers since the nineteenth century. Arthur Conan Doyle even bought maps here while writing Sherlock Holmes. The shop sells guidebooks, atlases, global literature, travel memoirs and beautifully designed maps. It is the perfect place to plan your next adventure.
It moved places but hasn’t left Covent Garden. It’s now tucked in to a cute corner of Mercer Walk. Should I say it? I’ll say it…it’s a few steps away from Arome, the Japanese bakery with the viral honey toast 👀 (I had it just last week, it was so delicious! Got it to go and warmed it up in the air fryer… SO GOOD!)
Daunt Books Travel Section
While Daunt is not solely a travel shop, its travel rooms are considered the best curated in London. Because the books are arranged by country, you can see fiction, history and travel writing all in one place which makes it incredibly inspiring.
I think I mentioned in a past post about best travel books, but I used to go to the Holland Park branch a lot when I was nannying and studying and dreaming about travelling after uni. A lot of the travelogues and such had the flag of the countries they were set in on the spine so I used to go through the spines to pick the countries I was interested in. Good times!
READ MORE: 30+ Best Travel Books to Gift This Christmas: Inspiring Reads by Women and World Travellers
Occult Bookshops in London
Watkins Books
Watkins has been part of London’s esoteric scene since 1893 and is one of the oldest occult bookstores in the world. It sells books on tarot, magic, mythology, psychology, astrology, paganism, meditation and loads more! Famous occultists such as Aleister Crowley and W B Yeats have connections to Watkins which gives it a fascinating historical legacy.
They also sell a bunch of magical supplies for all your witchy needs. Don’t forget to visit their downstairs area which has most of their book collection! It’s just on the right as you go in right next to the cashier, easy to miss.
Treadwell’s Books
Treadwell’s is the modern centre of London’s witchcraft community. The shop specialises in paganism, folklore, ceremonial magic and esoteric history. It is beautifully decorated and has knowledgeable staff plus a full calendar of lectures and workshops. It is one of the most atmospheric bookshops in the city. They also host loads of events, classes and talks, some of them online.
READ MORE: Best Witchy Shops in London
Atlantis Bookshop
Founded in 1922 (!!), Atlantis is a family run occult bookstore linked to the early Golden Dawn movement and many notable esoteric writers. It stocks grimoires, magical texts and folklore studies. The shop feels like a piece of hidden London history. It’s on Museum Street which, I don’t know, I feel like it sounds fitting.
They also host events in-store and are so lovely and friendly!
The Most Beautiful Bookshops in London
Daunt Books, Marylebone
Its Edwardian architecture, wooden galleries and stained glass make it one of the most photographed bookshops in the city.
Hatchards, Piccadilly
Hatchards in Piccadilly is London’s oldest bookseller with more than 200 (!!) years of history. A few steps away from the big Waterstones.
Maison Assouline, Piccadilly
Speaking of Piccadilly…set inside a former bank on Piccadilly with soaring ceilings, marble floors and dramatic lighting, Maison Assouline recently featured on a list of most beautiful book cafes in the world. It specialises in ultra-luxury coffee-table books covering travel, fashion, art, interiors and culture so browsing feels like wandering through a gallery of glossy wanderlust. The store is also home to Swans Bar, a chic little cocktail and coffee bar where you can sip something glamorous while leafing through a £200 travel tome (wouldn’t want to cause any spillage!).
It is opulent, cinematic and gorgeous, making it a must visit if you love beautiful books and beautifully designed spaces.
Daunt Books, Notting Hill
Tiny but mighty. It’s fairly new, it only opened a few months ago (Feb ’25) and they added this really cool book mobile display like Brussel’s wonderful Cook & Book!
Final Thoughts
London’s bookshops are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you want the biggest bookstore in London, a quiet and literary independent, a rare and antiquarian shop or travel specialist, a romantic fiction haven or a world famous occult bookstore, you will find it here. The city’s bookshops are not just places to buy books but places to wander, discover and get lost in stories. The perfect refuge (especially when they come with a coffee shop!). No matter what kind of reader you are, London has the perfect bookshop waiting for you.
