London Bookshops: A Definitive Ranking
Word On The Water, Kings Cross
By Erin Deborah Waks
I’m in a really good mood. Want to know why?
I spent the morning browsing my favourite bookshop in all of London.
What is it that makes a bookshop so great, my non-book loving friends would ask. Those who love to read know the answer - in fact, even those who don’t might still know. Book shops are wonderful places for several reasons.
One, they’re a place full of books. And I for one am never happier than when I have a stack of them in hand. Two, they seem to cultivate a uniquely peaceful kind of atmosphere, the type of cosiness that makes you want to curl up on a sofa with a cat, a book and a cappuccino. And three, they inspire a love of reading, of learning, of opening up your world - even if you don’t want to buy anything.
So, without further ado, voici a definitive ranking of what I believe to be the best bookshops in London.
5. House Of Books, West Hampstead
Being the closest bookshop to me, I frequent it, well, frequently. I find the recommendations of staff in here to be stellar and the displays cleverly put forward what one might actually enjoy reading. Oh and plus, it’s just really bloody cute.
4. Hatchards, Piccadilly
The magnificent five-storey bookshop on Piccadilly, right next to Fortnum and Mason and opposite the Royal Academy, is the oldest bookshop in the UK and the official booksellers to the royal household. Great for finding all sorts of books but especially those centred on history - and, indeed, British history, it’s an absolute must-visit. Even just for the spiral staircase alone.
3. Daunt Books, Marylebone
My standard 10k loop begins at my flat and ends right in the heart of Marylebone and, as such, I’ve been known to pop into Daunt Books dripping with sweat (don’t worry, on these occasions I’m in the firm ‘look but don’t touch’ camp. An original Edwardian bookshop with long oak galleries and graceful skylights right on Marylebone High Street, it’s a classic for a reason.
2. Walden Books, Camden
The only second-hand bookshop on my list but undoubtedly my favourite in the city, Camden’s Walden Books is hidden just a five-minute walk from the market, on a nearby residential street. My brother first introduced me to this place last year and ever since, it’s been a regular stop on my list. Don’t go in with a wish list - rather, browse the shelves for what looks good, or ask the (very very helpful and smart) staff.
Word On The Water, Kings Cross
The number one spot must go to the most unique, quaint, unequivocally gorgeous bookshop that can be found on a barge on Regent's Canal in the King's Cross area at Granary Square. Yes, it moves, and yes, it’s adorable. Hence my good mood. Kitted out with rows of shelves, a perfect seating area and even a little fireplace, it’s pretty much perfection itself. At least in my book.
