How Many Bookshops Are There in London?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re a book lover traveling to London, you might be wondering how many bookshops you can visit. The truth is, it’s impossible to give an exact number as there are so many bookshops scattered throughout the city. However, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best and most unique bookshops in London for you to check out.

Daunt Books

One of the most well-known bookshops in London is Daunt Books. Located in Marylebone, this bookstore has been around since 1990 and is known for its stunning Edwardian architecture and its extensive selection of travel books. If you’re planning a trip or just love reading about different destinations, Daunt Books is definitely worth a visit.

Persephone Books

For fans of female authors, Persephone Books is a must-see. This independent publisher and bookstore focuses on forgotten works by female writers from the mid-20th century. The shop itself is also quite charming with its signature dove-grey covers on all their books and elegant decor.

The Second Shelf

This specialty bookstore in Soho focuses on rare and collectible books by female authors. It’s also known for hosting events such as talks and readings by prominent women writers.

Word on the Water

This unique floating bookstore can be found on Regent’s Canal near King’s Cross. Word on the Water is a cozy space filled with second-hand books, live music performances, and even coffee and snacks served from a boat next door.

Foyles

Located just off Charing Cross Road, Foyles is one of London’s largest bookshops with multiple floors dedicated to different genres including fiction, non-fiction, art books, children’s books, and more. This iconic store has been serving book lovers since 1903 and continues to be a popular destination for readers from all over the world.

Conclusion

While it’s impossible to give an exact number of bookshops in London, the ones listed above are definitely some of the best and most unique. Whether you’re a fan of travel writing, forgotten female authors, rare books, or just love browsing through endless shelves of literature, London has something for every type of book lover. So why not plan a trip and discover some of these amazing bookshops for yourself?