The best bookshops in London

If you like books, London will spoil you!

Once a bookseller, always a bookseller. We've put together a list of great London bookshops for all your needs.

Gosh! The best bookshop for comics!

Their range of graphic novels, small press comics, illustrated children's books, and manga is second to none. Their window displays are always dreamy, and they host events with incredible artists. 

Foyles on Charing Cross. The best BIG bookshop!

If you're looking for a vast selection of books (over 200,000 titles over five floors), this is the place for you. They've been an independent bookseller for 115 years before being bought by Waterstones - don't worry though, they're still very independent at heart. A great place to spend a dark, rainy afternoon and feel the main character vibes!

Libreria. The best aesthetically pleasing bookshop!

This haven, just off Brick Lane, is packed with wonderful treasures and expert staff to recommend the perfect title. It even has cleverly placed mirrors to create a magical atmosphere.

New Beacon Books. The best bookshop for African and Caribbean literature!

Established in 1966, New Beacon Books is the only remaining independent Black publishing and bookselling entity in the UK, and it has played a crucial role in Black British literary life. This wonderful space faced the threat of closure back in 2023, but it was saved by a massive crowdfunding campaign!

The Common Press. The best intersectional bookshop (with great coffee!)

This space champions titles by marginalised authors and hosts a fabulous series of events. The shop is based in a multidisciplinary arts venue in Shoreditch, which includes a restaurant and events space - plus a popular cafe! 

Skoob Books. The best second-hand bookshop!

Located in the Brunswick Centre, one of the most singular Brutalist developments in the heart of London, Skoob sells over 55,000 titles, with a particular focus on nonfiction, history, politics and philosophy.

Housmans. The best LGBTQIA+ and feminist bookshop!

This radical shop has been selling new and second-hand publications since 1945. They specialise in books, magazines, and periodicals on politics, feminism, and environmental justice. Don't miss out on the second-hand selection in the basement, with books starting at £1!

AA Bookshop. The best bookshop for architecture and art books!

This hidden gem in Bloomsbury is an extension of the neighbouring Architectural Association. It sells a curated selection of books on urbanism, arts, design, philosophy, politics, and fiction. It's a beautiful space, filled with great-quality books, some of which are published by AA themselves.

Books for Cooks. The best culinary bookshop!

This wonderful Notting Hill shop is crammed with thousands of books on regional recipes, books on the history of national cuisines, and so on. They have a small kitchen at the back where the owners put recipes to the test.