Over the years, Bath has been home to many a famous writer. From Mary Shelley to Jane Austen, to numerous authors using our beautiful city as a backdrop to their stories (Charles Dickens and contemporary writers like Peter Lovesey) – Bath is full of literary history and excellent bookshops.
If you are interested in delving into the literary history of Bath or exploring our range of bookshops during your visit, here are some tips for where to start.
Best Bookshops in Bath:
In Bath, you will find no shortage of wonderful bookshops, each with their own unique energy.
Mr. B’s Emporium
This is definitely my favourite bookshop in Bath. It’s quirky, cosy, and so friendly. You’ll find three floors full of books, with imaginative decorations throughout. The children’s section makes me want to be a kid again! They also do the best ever type of spa day – a Reading Spa – where you get personalised book recommendations, great book chats, and coffee and cake. You also get to go home with a big stack of books hand-picked just for you! Mr. B’s is my happy place, second only to my next recommendation:
Skoobs Bookstall
Now this might be biased seeing that when I am not working as Marketing Manager for YMCA Brunel Group, I am working the stall selling books, but Skoobs is truly a wonderful, wholesome place. Arguable one of the best bookshops in Bath, we curate our shelves with current tastes in mind, trying to maintain the best possible stock. All our books are secondhand and super affordable. We love chatting books and giving recommendations, or helping you find what you are after. Skoobs also buys books (selectively) so if you have any paperbacks you need clearing, bring them over.
Persephone Books
Persephone Books is an independent publisher which highlights the work of female authors from the 20th century who have been looked over. It is such an empowering concept and their books are stunning, with beautifully designed end pages and matching bookmarks. The shop is well worth a visit just for a bit of eye-candy too.
Oldfield Park Bookshop
If you find yourself exploring Moorland Road and all it has to offer, make sure you visit the Oldfield Park Bookshop. It is a wonderful little independent bookshop that loves supporting their community.
Beaufort Books
On the opposite end of town from Oldfield Park is Larkhall, a lovely little village-like extension of Bath. Here you will find Beaufort Books – a small independent bookshop that you could spend hours exploring.
Bayntun’s
George Bayntun is home to an antiquarian bookshop and bindery which has been running since 1829. You can also find a range of rare and secondhand books, bookbinding supplies, and prints. It’s a great place to explore and take in some bookbinding history. It is also in a beautiful, listed building just near the train station. Tip: check their opening times before going. You might have to ring the doorbell to get in, but don’t let this deter you!
Toppings
Toppings & Company Booksellers have recently moved near the Abbey to a beautiful building. The impressive architecture complements the vast array of books. You can even live out your Disney princess dreams and glide along the wooden ladders along the bookshelves! The best bit is that Toppings is open late – I usually top by on my way to a post-dinner ice cream treat at Real Italian Ice Cream. Tip: This one is a big touristy destination and can be quite busy at times.
Charity Shops
There are loads of charity shops throughout the city, usually with a book section, but there are a few which are dedication for books: Oxfam in Southgate, Julian House on Walcot St., Dorothy House on Broad St. It is always a great idea to add these to your tour of bookshops in Bath!
Museums:
Jane Austen Centre
If you want to step back in time and immerse yourself into all things Jane Austen, this is a great place to check out! You can tour around the centre and enjoy a nice cream tea, pretending you are back in Georgian times waiting for your Mr. Darcy!
Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein
Right next door to Jane Austen is Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein. A different vibe, but a fantastic experience! The museum details the history of Mary Shelley’s life. Each room is a different experience and considers all of your senses. If you are into a bit of a scare, you can do the escape room or venture down into the basement..
Festivals:
Children’s Literature Festival
This festival, running from the 27th September – 6th October, is jam packed with great events for kids. Famous authors like Cressida Crowell, Philip Reeve, Cornelia Funke and others will be running events and workshops for kids. If your children love reading, this is one to check out!
Jane Austen Festival
From the 13th – 22nd of September, the streets of Bath will be full of Georgian outfits and Jane Austen lovers. The programme of events includes walking tours, fencing, dancing, book clubs and more.
Author Talks
One of my absolute favourite parts about living in Bath is the range of authors that come to the city. Both Mr. B’s and Toppings regularly host author talks. It is always worth having a look at any events that might be going on during your stay. You might just coincide with one of your favourite writers, or discover a new one!
Author: Sarah, YMCA Brunel Group Marketing Manager
Image: The Jane Austen Festival, Visit Bath
