10 Great Bookshops In London

London Review Bookshop

Address: 14-16 Bury Place, London WC1A 2JL

Right in the heart of central London and a stone's throw from the British Museum, London Review Bookshop hosts a comprehensive and exciting range of literature spanning everything from contemporary fiction to poetry. Self described as "intelligent without being pompous", you'll be sure to find stimulating reads in this friendly environment.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 10 am – 6:30 pm

Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

Website | Instagram

Word on the Water

Address: Regent's Canal Towpath, Granary Square, London, N1C 4LW

Word on the Water is a floating bookshop aboard a 1920s Dutch barge. With jazz performances, poetry readings, and friendly dogs, this canal-side bookstore is as quirky and charming as it gets.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sun 12 pm – 7 pm

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Stanfords

Address: 7 Mercer Walk, London WC2H 9FA

Stanfords is the world’s largest map and travel bookshop. Founded in 1853, it’s a paradise for globetrotters and explorers. You’ll find detailed maps, travel guides, and adventure stories from every corner of the globe.

Opening Hours

Mon to Fri 9 am – 7 pm

Sat 10 am – 7 pm

Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

Website | Instagram

Housmans Bookshop

Address: 5 Caledonian Rd, London N1 9DY

Housmans is an iconic radical bookshop in King’s Cross. Focused on politics, peace, feminism, and progressive thought, it’s a powerful space for activism, independent publishing, and social justice reading.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 11 am – 6:30 pm

Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

Website

Bookbar

Address: 166 Blackstock Rd, London N5 1HA

Bookbar blends books and wine in a cozy, modern setting. It’s both a bookshop and a wine bar, designed for conversation and connection. Attend events, sip wine, and discover your next favourite read—all in one place.

Opening Hours

Mon Closed

Tue 10 am – 6 pm

Wed to Sat 10 am – 9 pm

Sun 11 am – 6 pm

Website | Instagram

The Photographers Gallery Bookshop

Address: 16-18 Ramillies St, London W1F 7LW

As the UK’s first public gallery dedicated solely to photography, The Photographers’ Gallery also houses a curated bookshop that’s a visual feast. It’s a top destination for photo books, visual art publications, and rare prints—perfect for photography aficionados and creative minds.

Opening Hours

Mon to Wed 10 am – 6 pm

Thu to Fri 10 am – 8 pm

Sat 10 am – 6 pm

Sun 11 am – 6 pm

Website | Instagram

Treadwell's Books

Address: 33 Store Street, London, WC1E 7BS

Treadwell’s is a magical hideaway for those interested in the occult, folklore, and spiritualism. This atmospheric shop also hosts tarot readings, workshops, and lectures. Think candles, spellbooks, and a warm welcome to all curious minds.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 12 pm – 7 pm

Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

Website | Instagram

Daunt Books

Address: Daunt Books, 84 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4QW

Daunt Books is a renowned independent bookshop nestled in the heart of Marylebone. Housed in a stunning Edwardian building with oak galleries and skylights, it’s especially famous for its travel literature, beautifully organized by country. A true gem for explorers, dreamers, and design lovers alike.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 9 am – 7:30 pm

Sun 11 am – 6 pm

Website | Instagram

Primrose Hill Books

Address: 134 Regent's Park Rd, London NW1 8XL

Primrose Hill Books is a charming, family-run independent shop with a strong local following. With a lovely children’s section and shelves full of literary treasures, it’s the epitome of cozy neighborhood browsing.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 11 am – 6 pm

Sun Closed

Website | Instagram

Foyles

Address: 107 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0DT

Foyles is a legendary London institution, serving book lovers since 1903. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, history, or graphic novels, the vast selection and knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit for book enthusiasts.

Opening Hours

Mon to Sat 9 am – 8 pm

Sun 11 am – 6 pm

Website | Instagram