Last Updated on the 15th of January, 2026
There is something magical about walking into a bookstore.
Being welcomed by shelves stacked full of books, all waiting to be picked up and read, is a joyful experience.
There’s the smell of books. There’s the sight of rows upon rows filled with stories that can spark a great deal of curiosity and a sense of wonder.
There’s the feel of the pages inviting you to discover new authors, genres, and ideas, and the general ambience that oozes comfort and evocativeness.
Read More: 11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know
For avid readers and book lovers, Edinburgh is an absolute dream.
Not only is it home to some of the world’s most influential writers and the Edinburgh International Book Festival, but the city is also teeming with a huge number of independent bookshops displaying fascinating reads.
It doesn’t matter what part of the city you are visiting, you are guaranteed to find bookshops on almost every corner, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Whether you love the scent of old books or the crisp, never-been-read feel of a new book, if your passion lies with adventure or horror, comic or classic, mystery or fantasy, there’s bound to be a book shop in Edinburgh that’s right up your street.
Read More: 10 Unforgettable Edinburgh Day Trip Ideas From a Former Local
Your Guide To Some Of Edinburgh’s Most Beautiful Bookshops
Having just returned from yet another trip to Scotland’s capital, where I spent as many happy hours discovering the city’s quirky second-hand bookshops as I possibly could in three days, I’ve compiled a useful guide to the best bookshops in Edinburgh.
As I visited Edinburgh at the end of October, I discovered that many bookstores curate sections with fall-themed books, including spooky stories, mysteries, thrillers, and books with autumnal settings.
Furthermore, every single place I managed to visit exuded a cosy and comforting vibe, which was especially appealing during the cooler autumn months when the daylight hours shorten.
So, without further ado, if you’re sitting comfortably, let’s begin, as we explore some of Edinburgh’s most captivating bookshops…..
Read More: 10 Unforgettable Edinburgh Day Trip Ideas From a Former Local
#1. The Lighthouse Radical Booshop
Located just around the corner from Edinburgh University, Lighthouse is a queer-owned and woman-led independent community shop that was nominated as Scotland’s best independent bookshop in 2020.
Its shelves are graced with all-new books in all genres, with a special emphasis on left-wing politics, feminism, environmentalism, and LGBTQ+ issues.
It is a great place to discover books and authors you’ve never heard of, ones outside the mainstream book world.
Lighthouse also hosts several book clubs and reading events. To make sure you don’t miss one, check out Book Fringe and Radical Book Fair.
- Perfect for: Activist, LGBTQIA+, Feminist, Gender Studies, Poetry, Small Press
- Location: 43-45 West Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9DB
Read More: A Local’s Guide: Some Of The Best Things To See And Do In Edinburgh’s New Town
#2. Topping & Company Booksellers of Edinburgh
Topping & Company is a UK-based bookshop chain that first emerged in Ely, Cambridgeshire.
Their Edinburgh branch is a beautiful, well-lit space composed of three large floors and its signature rolling library ladders.
The bookshop houses more than 70,000 individual books and offers complimentary pots of tea that you can enjoy in one of the shop’s cosy alcoves, so be prepared to devote a full afternoon exploring their maze of rooms.
Its events programme is full of treats such as readings by world-class authors, book clubs and poetry nights.
A fantastic way to build up a collection of today’s finest writing is to sign up for their monthly Subscription Club.
You can choose from Signed Fiction, Signed Detective Fiction, Signed Non-Fiction or Signed Fantasy and fill your bookshelves to the brim.
- Perfect for: Classics, Contemporary Fiction, Literary Fiction, Young Adults & Kids, Signed Additions,
- Location: 2 Blenheim Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5JH, United Kingdom
Read More: Top 11 Things To Do in Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul
#3. Till’s Second-Hand Bookshop
A little outside the main tourist trail, you can find an independent bookshop that’s well worth the trip — Tills Bookshop.
It is an independent second-hand bookshop, established in 1985 by Rick and Ann Till and overlooking the Meadows park.
Since 2019, it has been under new ownership, following the retirement of the Tills.
The shop is open seven days a week and here you can find a fantastic selection of second-hand books, particularly in contemporary literary fiction and classics, as well as biography, history and sociology.
The books are reasonably priced, plus there are seats scattered trougout the store where you can sit down and get lost in a new book.
They also have a fireplace that is often lit during the colder months to keep the readers cosy and snug,
If you are looking for rare books, you can check Tills’ Website. I’ve spotted the fifth edition of Sense and Sensibility, by Jane Austen, priced £480.00, as well as On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, by Ian Fleming, for £350.00
- Perfect for: Used and antique books
- Location: 1 Hope Park Crescent, Edinburgh EH8 9NA
Read More: What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For First Time Visitors
#4. Blackwell’s Bookshop
Trading since 1879, Blackwell’s is the largest academic and specialist bookseller in the UK with shops in Cambridge, Aberdeen, Manchester and Oxford.
As well as a huge selection of new books, they’ve got dedicated shelves for different collections of old classics and university textbooks, all spread over three floors.
There’s also a fantastic Harry Potter section with different editions and heaps of incredible merchandise.
One of the reasons why I love to stop by the bookshop whenever I am in the city is that they have one of the most incredible selections of books about Scotland, too.
While I wasn’t looking for anything particular, I walked away with Patrick Baker’s book ”The Cairngorms, The Secret History”.
*Good to know – as Blackwell’s offers free delivery worldwide, it makes for a fantastic place to order books if you’re shopping online!
- Perfect for: general fiction, bestsellers, and nonfiction
- Location: 53-62 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1YS, UK
Read More: Some of The Best Things To See At The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh
#5. McNaughtan’s, Edinburgh
Located at the top of Leith Walk, right next to some of the city’s main attractions, including Calton Hill and the Edinburgh Playhouse, McNaughtan’s claims to be Scotland’s oldest second-hand bookstore.
The shop specialises in rare, collectable and antiquarian books as well as a very interesting selection of old maps of Edinburgh.
Originally, the store was opened by Major John and Mrs Marjorie McNaughtan in 1957, but has been run by Derek Walker and Anna Fomicheva since 2015.
Overall, the charming interior and neatly stacked books make for a very relaxing browsing experience.
It was my first time in the shop, and once I walked in, I was greeted by the scent of old books.
I also discovered a quaint window seat, thoughtfully decorated with soft cushions, in which I was able to sit as I perused titles I was eager to add to my growing book collection.
Some of the treasures you can acquire through their website are an advanced readers’ copy of the second Potter book that’s priced at 950 pounds and the revised second edition of Charles Singleton’s monumental scholarly edition of Dante, first published between 1970 and 1975, priced at 250 pounds.
- Perfect for: second-hand and antiquarian books
- Location: 3a & 4a Haddington Place, Edinburgh, EH7 4AE
Read More: 8 Incredible Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once
#6. Armchair Books
Similar to Livreria Lello in Porto and Shakespeare and Company in Paris, Armchairs Books is quite popular on social media due to its appealing aesthetics and the narrow walkways stacked high with books.
If you are on the lookout for a cosy place where you can kick back and smell the old books, then stop by Armchair Books.
The shop is located in West Port, right around the corner from Grassmarket and is one of the city’s most beloved secondhand bookshops.
The shop is quite small; therefore, you need to be prepared to browse the bookshelves in close quarters with other book lovers, but it’s worth it as it is a place where you can easily spend hours looking at the many titles of books they have to offer.
The shop is surrounded by lovely cafés on all sides where you can sit down with your newly purchased book.
During my last visit, I picked up Murshroom boo – an author that I’d been meaning to read for ages but never quite got around to.
- Perfect for: used and antique books
- Location: 72-74 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2LE
Read More: Your Guide to the Best Edinburgh’s Neighbourhoods Worth Exploring
#7. Ginger & Pickles Children’s Bookshop
Ginger and Pickle’s is an independent bookshop entirely dedicated to children’s books. It might be small in size, but it is big on charm.
It is quite clear that the shop’s interior is designed with children’s imaginations in mind, providing a welcoming and engaging environment, which helps children develop a lifelong love of books.
We found Ginger and Pickles’ bookshelves packed to the rafters with picture books, chapter books, educational reads and activity books all beaming with wonderful stories and brilliant characters.
In addition to dedicated bookstore staff, there’s also a comfy sofa where you can put your feet up and snuggle with your favourite read.
- Perfect for: Children’s books
- Location: 51 St Stephen Street, Edinburgh, EH3 5AH
Read More: A Short Guide to The Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile in Edinburgh
#8. Rare Bird Books
Located just around the corner from Golden Hare Books is Rare Bird Books, Scotland’s only bookshop dedicated entirely to women’s writing.
The shop was founded by Rachel Wood in August 2021. The store offers a wonderfully curated selection of fiction and non-fiction titles, along with gifts and stationery from women-led businesses.
They also offer an online book club subscription service where each month you can choose from two secret blurbs and receive a beautifully wrapped parcel in the post.
Not only the shop, but also the area and the street that houses Rare Birds Book Shop have a nice vibe. It’s also nice to escape the hustle and bustle of Princes Street to enjoy a slower pace and to peruse and explore.
- Perfect for: Women’s Fiction, Romance, Rom-coms, Contemporary Fiction, Literary Fiction
- Location: 13 Raeburn Pl, Edinburgh EH4 1HU, UK
Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Vacation in Scotland
#9. Waterstones West End
Located on Edinburgh’s main shopping street, right across the road from Princes Street Gardens, Waterstones is a four-floor bookshop where you can spend many hours browsing the shelves.
The bookshop offers an inviting children’s section, a Scottish department and an exciting events program.
The shop also stocks an impressive variety of classics, contemporary fiction and a fantastic selection of notebooks and journals.
I couldn’t resist picking up a set of three mini Moomin notebooks with round corners, which would be a wonderful addition to my stationery cupboard, where I keep the notebooks people have kindly given me, as they know I am afflicted with stationeryphilia.
There’s also a clearance section with discounted books, duslecsia-friendly books and games and puzzles and soft toys.
In addition to books, you can find a lovely cafe on the second floor with one-of-a-kind, stunning views of Edinburgh Castle,
- Perfect for: General Fiction, Classics, stationery, gifts, games
- Location: 128 Princes Street, Edinburgh New Town EH2 4AD
Read More: 10 Incredible Attractions and Places You Have to Visit In Glasgow, Scotland
#10. Golden Hare Booksop
When a museum curator and art historian, Mark Jones, first opened the bookshop, his initial plan was to name it ‘The Golden Crocodile’.
His daughter Agnes was commissioned to create a mascot for the shop, and she returned with a gilded hare.
The award-winning booshop first opened its doors in the summer of 2012 in the Grassmarket, and after over two years in this location, the shop moved to Stockbridge, where it still can be found today.
The Golden Hare bookshop is small yet thoughtfully curated and run by knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff. It also hosts a lively roster of readings featuring writers from the UK and beyond.
Besides the books, you can also snag creatively designed merchandise such as organic tote bags, notebooks and wooden pin badges.
- Perfect for: Literary Fiction, Scottish Fiction, Signed additions, and picture books
- Location: 68 St Stephen Street, Stockbridge EH3 5AQ
Read More: 7 Days Scotland West Coast Road Trip: Glencoe To The Isle Of Skye
#11. Edinburgh Books
Right next to Armchair Books is Edinburgh Books, an independent bookshop established in 2008.
It doesn’t seem to be bothered about aesthetics, as upon entering, I stumbled upon cardboard boxes and shopping bags full of books eagerly waiting to be sorted.
I also found a stuffed grouse, a water buffalo head enthroned on the wall and a hidden staircase which leads to a cave-like underground section of non-fiction books.
The basement is a bit of a labyrinth, and one of the rooms is entirely dedicated to music, with boxes of sheet music for every voice and instrument.
My favourite feature was the “Scottish Room.” It’s filled with second-hand copies of fiction and nonfiction books, all to do with Scotland or written by Scottish writers.
I spotted poetry by Robert Burns, classics written by Sir Walter Scott, and selections from modern Scottish writers of all genres.
- Perfect for: Used books
- Location: 145-147 West Port, Edinburgh, EH8 9DP
Read More: St. Conan’s Kirk: A Captivating Architectural Marvel on the Shore of Loch Awe
#12. The Gently Mad Book Shop & Bookbinder
If you are visiting Botanical Gardens, don’t miss the little treasure trove that is Gently Mad Book Shop & Bookbinder.
This may have been my favourite bookshop in Edinburgh, as I discovered sprawling shelves of books in every variety lining the walls.
What gives the bookshop that irresistible allure is all the trinklets and ornaments on the shelves and hanging from the ceiling – vintage lamps, an old bird cage, statues, old posters and more.
I spotted the owner sitting at the desk on a mezzanine level above the main bookshop floor, and apart from his computer, the shop looked like a setting from a bygone era.
- Perfect for: used and antiquarian books
Read More: Isle Of Skye Guide: 5 Amazing Stops You Should Visit On The Trotternish Loop
Other Literature-Related Attractions and Events in Edinburgh
Whether you visit Edinburgh in summer or winter, you are bound to find many other literary attractions and year-round bookish events celebrating the works of authors and poets.
In fact, it’s almost impossible to keep up with the array of new events that frequently arrive on the capital’s doorstep.
While I missed out on the Edinburgh Women’s Fiction Festival and the Children’s Book Festival taking place at the end of September, I arrived when the Scottish International Storytelling Festival was in full swing.
- Original Harry Potter Location Tour | In this 2-hour walking tour, you can explore the streets of Edinburgh to find the inspiration behind the settings and characters in the books, as well as filming locations for the movies.
- Edinburgh International Book Festival | out of all the literary events in the city, the Book Festival is one of the highlights. It brings together leading and emerging artists
- Scottish International Storytelling Festival | running for just under two weeks every October, the festival is a celebration of live storytelling from Scottish and international storytellers.
- The Writer Museums, located in the 17th-century Lady Stair’s House, is dedicated to the lives and works of Scotland’s great literary figures, particularly Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
- Scott Monument | The 61.11 metres tall monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott is the largest monument to a writer in the world. You can reach a series of viewing platforms by climbing the winding staircase inside.
Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary for Spell-binding 5 Days in Scotland
- Edinburgh Book Sculptures | Anonymously sculpted and donated, these sculptures made from poetry books and pages are sprinkled around the city.
- Scottish Poetry Library | Located just off the Canongate, the library houses 40,000 books and papers, including the complete archive of the renowned Scottish poet Edwin Morgan. They also have a wonderfully stocked shop, full of books and gifts.
- The Oxford Bar |If you are a fan of the Inspector Rebus novels, you’d be happy to discover Rebus’s top boozer as The Oxford Bar on Young Street, where you can discuss a fictional case while sampling a Scottish beer.
- National Library of Scotland | The library with over seven million books, including priceless manuscripts and letters by Austen, Byron and Darwin. They also host frequent literary events and temporary and permanent exhibitions.
- Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour | an award-winning and fun tour where you get to learn about Scotland’s literary figures from professional actors, rather than usual tour guides, so you can expect it to be highly entertaining and full of drama.
- The Conan Doyle Pub, located on the corner of York Place, is named after the famed creator of Sherlock Holmes. The traditional pub is just down the street from Conan Doyle’s birthplace on Picardy Place.
Read More: How to Visit Enchanting Stirling Castle & Gardens in Scotland: An Easy Guide
And, that’s a Wrap
And there you have it, some of the city’s most beautiful bookshops.
As you can see, both by the sheer number of unique bookshops and various literary attractions and events, Edinburgh takes books very seriously, and you are guaranteed to never leave the city without a new book in hand.
I hope you have found this article insightful and were able to find a favourite bookshop.
… … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …
Now, over to you!
Have you been to Edinburgh? Let us know in the comments!
Let us know if you are planning a visit to Edinburgh and have travel-related questions
Subscribe
Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter to stay up to date with all our outdoor adventures
Enter your email below to receive updates
OUR CROSSINGS 
I love, love bookshops
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am glad to hear that, dear Sheree. I love bookshops too because they offer a unique atmosphere for browsing, often host community events, and give a sense of connection and well-being. They are also a great place to find curated collections and receive personalised recommendations that might not be available online. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 I hope all is well 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Aiva, all is well with me and I hope it is with you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
All is well, thank you, dear Sheree 😘
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post Aiva. I always love a good bookshop and Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you kindly, dear Marion. I am glad we share a love for Edinburgh. I was there two weeks ago and had a chance to enjoy both Halloween and Christmas decorations. The elaborate and beautiful holiday decorations of the Dome were already up. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 I hope all is well 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post, book shops and libraries always feature in my travel plans. And Edinburgh is also great for finding a cosy cafe in which to enjoy a new book.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am always delighted to hear that there are still people who seek out bookshops and libraries when they travel. That is so true. With its abundance of independent cafés and coffee shops, Edinburgh is a haven for both bibliophiles and latte enthusiasts. My favourite has to be the Milkman due to its touches of tartan, stone and wood. What it lacks in size, this tiny haven makes up for in flavour, thanks to a mouthwatering spread of homemade tray bakes and cakes. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 I hope all is well 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
I love this! We always try to pop into some bookstores on our travels. We’ve been collecting books for Violet for years and it’s fun finally reading them to her now and remembering our travels.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am so glad to hear that you, just like me, pop into bookstores whenever you travel. There’s nothing better than adding more reading material to kids’ book collection, especially if you bring them from trips – Violet is so lucky to have such a considerate parent as you, Lyssy. In the last few years, I started to buy books as souvenirs, as they can be a great way to remember a trip, especially those with local authors, regional histories, or specific cultural relevance like local cookbooks. Although I can get carried away, and always have to be mindful of the extra weight and bulk of books, as they can add considerable weight to luggage. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
As an avid bookworm, I simply adore this guide to Edinburgh’s bookstores!! Edinburgh’s such an atmospheric city. Despite living in Scotland, it’s incredible how few of these I’ve actually visited. I’d love to venture Till’s Second-Hand Bookshop, for instance; I love the way it has a fire to keep you warm, especially in the chillier winter months! Topping & Company is another that sounds wonderful! You’ve inspired me! Thanks for sharing this fab post with us. 📚💜🪷
LikeLiked by 2 people
I know what you mean – somehow, I visited just a few bookstores when I lived in Edinburgh, despite passing them by on my way to work and home every day. At one point, I lived near Grassmarket, just beside Armcair bookstore, and never stepped foot in it. Can you believe it! That’s why, when I travelled to Edinburgh a few weeks ago, I devoted my time in the city solely to visiting as many bookstores as I possibly could. You should stop by Till’s Second-Hand Bookshop – I was ecstatic to find a roaring fireplace in the bookstore. There’s even an old armchair nearby where customers can sit and read. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post. I love bookstores and also public libraries. I tend to visit both when I can while traveling. They can tell you a lot about the area you are visiting. (Suzanne)
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you kindly 🙂 I am delighted to hear that you love stopping by the bookstores and libraries, too, Suzanne. I find them very hard to resist as bookshops tend to create an immersive, comforting, and magical environment through their design, which includes narrow aisles, towering bookshelves, and soft lighting that fosters slow movement and discovery. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
Gosh, you could spend a whole week in Edinburgh just browsing these shops and snuggling up in a cozy nook with some books.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You are right, Diana – you do need a considerable amount of time to visit all Edinburgh bookshops, especially if you wish to slowly browse through shelves, snuggle up with a book and have a cup of tea. I was there for three days and still missed a good few. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for this wonderful share, Aiva! 📚 My visit to Edinburgh is cherished though limited in time. I’d love to go back and explore these charming places.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am glad you enjoyed it. I find that visiting bookshops while travelling is an amazing experience because it offers a unique way to connect with a place, find meaningful souvenirs, and discover local culture and stories. Bookstores can be architectural wonders or hidden gems, and browsing them provides a relaxing refuge and a deeper understanding of the local community. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
My absolute pleasure to visit your posts and to dream of returning, with more to see. Thank you so much for the lovely reply and best to you, Aiva. xx
LikeLike
some fabulous bookshops here!
LikeLiked by 2 people
There are many amazing bookshops in Edinburgh, and they are all well worth a visit, Tanja. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aiva, these places look so cozy, and amazing! There is something so calming about bookshops!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I agree with you – there is something so calming about bookshops. I think it stems from a combination of psychological factors, sensory experiences, and the inherent nature of books. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love this post Aiva, but then I can’t walk past a book shop, library or stationery shop either. The idea of browsing books with cups of tea and open fires just sounds absolutely wonderful to me. I too am a stationery-philia and have note books galore just waiting for the right occasion to start using them.
What a terrific outing for children too, a bit of walking, a bit of browsing, and a bit of reading. Second hand bookshops are a terrific way to keep stories circulating and cheaper than buying new all the time.
Really enjoyed reading this, thanks for the tour and have a lovely day. xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much for your wonderful comment, dear Genys. I am glad to discover that we have a lot of things in common.
I can never pass by a stationary shop either, and I do have more notebooks than I would care to admit, but I find the act of writing on paper to be a more satisfying and visceral experience than using a screen. The wear and tear of an active notebook adds to its meaning and soul.
Second-hand bookshops are my go-to place because they offer affordability and access to unique, out-of-print, and diverse books that might not be found in new bookstores. They provide a treasure trove for collectors and readers, where you can discover books at a lower cost and build personal libraries or find rare editions. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
This is such a great bookstore guide Aiva. I’ll bookmark it for a future ideas. Maggie
LikeLiked by 2 people
You can easily spend many, many hours perusing the shelves of Edinburgh’s bookshops, Maggie. I was in the city for three days and still didn’t manage to visit all. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Incredible that you’ve been to so many bookstores in Edinburgh! Even in my hometown of Los Angeles, I haven’t visited nearly half as many as you have! All look so cozy and inviting, stocked to the brim with colorful books. Armchair Books especially caught my eye, as it really is reminiscent of the historic Shakespeare & Co. in Paris (as you mentioned). Thanks for taking us on a journey of Edinburgh’s literary scene!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Whenever I travel to Edinburgh, I always try to pick a travel theme. In the spring, I visited all the blooming sakura hot spots, and a few weeks ago, I decided to devote my time to visiting as many bookshops as I possibly could. There are a few more stores that didn’t make the list, as I simply ran out of time. Armchair Boostore is one of the most famous due to its antiquarian labyrinth of bulging bookshelves, plush carpets, and a familiar bookish smell that will make bookworms feel right at home. You would love it and would easily find a treasure trove of titles, from out-of-print books to different editions, which adds to the unique and rewarding experience of secondhand book shopping. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
All these places are so tempting. How many times have I found myself entering a beautiful bookshop in a country where I cannot read the language.
LikeLiked by 2 people
The wonder of getting lost in a bookshop is an incredible experience, especially when you are on the road and the books are in a different language. I find that one of the best things about bookshops is that you’ll pick up titles that you didn’t even know existed. You might even find a new subject of interest, surface an unknown author, or find an obscure title. It’s harder to do that online. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post, I was going to suggest the Gently mad shop but you have it towards the end. When I was last in Edinburgh they had a rare Lord of the rings set in the window, unfortunately I couldn’t afford it. However, my credit card was screaming out from my wallet 😂
LikeLiked by 2 people
All I could do was to admire and gawk at some of the rare books that were priced close to my monthly mortgage payment. Before my trip to Edinburgh, I knew I had to be well prepared and thus mentally prepped myself to say ‘no’ to new books. I ended up purchasing a good few new reads, but had to constantly suppress the excitement and the need for new stories and knowledge. I am trying to focus on finishing current books before buying more. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 It was so nice to hear from you 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Aiva, thanks for getting back to me 😊
Haha they do have some very expensive books in there, it’s an expensive part of Edinburgh in general anyway, but I am a sucker for old books. Good luck with finishing your current reads, I am working through Outlander but it’s an absolute beast at around 900 pages & there are about 10 of them 😂 X
LikeLike
There’s something so fabulous about a bookshop, wherever you find it, Aiva. But if I’m ever back in Edinburgh I’ll go on the hunt xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
That is so true, dear Jo, there’s something so fabulous about a bookshop – it’s a sensory experience that combines the physical act of browsing with a sense of discovery and community. I find the atmosphere, the smell of books, and the ability to physically handle and flip through titles irreplaceable. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fabulous post, I absolutely love bookstores!! Great idea to share this.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am glad to hear that you are also fond of bookstores. I just love how they offer a sensory experience and a sense of community that online shopping cannot replicate, providing a chance to physically handle books, discover new authors, and enjoy a peaceful environment. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a pity that we didn’t know about these bookshops before we went to Edinburgh. But we’ll go again, and then we know where to look.
Thanks a lotThe Fab Four of Cley:-) 🙂 🙂 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Edinburgh is an excellent place for bookstores. The city has a rich literary history and is filled with a wide variety of bookstores, from large independent shops to small, specialist, vintage, and new bookshops. I hope you get to go back one day to browse them. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can’t believe we missed all these gems when we were in Edinburgh! Thank you for sharing, Aiva. If we go back we now know where to look.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Edinburgh is a perfect place for book lovers as it’s where you can find a wide range of stores, from large independent shops to second-hand stores and those specialising in rare or new releases. Given that Edinburgh is quite compact, it is very easy to walk between many different bookstores. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
Edinburgh has some great book shops. Excellent post, Aiva!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much. Yes, Edinburgh is a wonderful city for avid booklovers and readers, being the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature with a rich literary history and numerous attractions for reading enthusiasts. The city offers a fantastic mix of world-renowned festivals, countless bookstores, literary landmarks, and museums dedicated to famous writers. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I could easily spent time in any or many! of these charming bookshops. The new modern ones around the U.S. are off-putting. I love a small shop crammed with interesting reads and usually take a few finds home. Glad you are raising your children as readers!
LikeLiked by 2 people
You would love Edinburgh’s bookshops as the majority of them are independant and secondhand. They offer a sensory experience with the physical feel of books, the smell of paper, and the quiet, cosy atmosphere. I am very delighted that both our girls are keen book lovers and readers, unless, of course, they are asking for the Harry Potter hardcover boxed set that comes in a collectable trunk-like box with sturdy handles, lockable lid, bonus decorative stickers and costs 200 euros! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh this post makes my book loving heart so happy. I think I could spend many happy hours wandering through these bookstores and admiring the shop and finding new reads to add to the ever growing list 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
You would love wandering through Edinburgh bookstores because they are oozing a unique atmosphere created by winding paths and old book smells. I had a chance to discover titles I never knew I needed, making the experience unpredictable and exciting. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love bookstores and find myself wandering through them each time I visit a country. Although I travelled through Edinburgh many years ago, I didn’t come across a bookstore.
Here in Brisbane, bookstores seem to be closing down, which makes me sad.
A great guide, Aiva and thanks for sharing this with your readers. Have a great week. Nilla x
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am glad we share a mutual love for books, my dear Nilla. The winding paths and countless shelves of bookstores often create a sense of magic, as if you are on a treasure hunt for your next great read.
The closing of bookstores is always a very sad thing because it represents a loss of community spaces, a decline in local economies, and the disappearance of unique environments for discovering books.
That’s why I always support bookstores whenever we travel, even if it means purchasing merchandise, as many Indie bookstores carry more than a few of my favourite things: they often feature wondrously curated assortments of puzzles, games, notecards, pens, notebooks, journals, mugs, and the list goes on!
Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Eloquently put, Aiva, but too true. Have a great weekend. 🙂 x
LikeLike
I can never resist a bookshop, and what a wonderful list this is 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
There’s just something about the experience of browsing through physical books that makes it so irreplaceable. For me, the smell of old paper and wood, and the sheer abundance of stories, is always a source of peace and nostalgia. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
I’m such a fan of bookstores and the smell of books. What a fun guide and one I’ll keep in mind when we eventually visit Edinburgh.
LikeLiked by 1 person
In Edinburgh, bookstores are often designed with an appealing aesthetic, creating a pleasant and stimulating environment. The physical presence of books—with their different sizes, colours, and textures—is visually and tactilely appealing. You are sure to love them, dear Linda. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can smell the sweet scent of book pages from here! 😂 They all look so charming!
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are all indeed very charming! In Edinburgh, bookstores serve as community gathering places where people can connect with others who share their love of reading. They host events like author signings, readings, and book clubs that foster a sense of belonging. Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
There are some seriously cozy options here. One must be careful, though, or risk suddenly having a suitcase that is over the weight limit on the return home – haha!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s so true!! But so many memories from my travels live on in the pages of books that I just couldn’t resist picking up while on the road. And that, I think, is worth every penny I’ve ever had to pay in oversize baggage charges.
Given that many of the second-hand bookshops in Edinburgh sell books for as little as 1 pound, my latest trip to Edinburgh required careful consideration of which books and how many books I could bring back home. In the end, I decided to treat myself and just brought along an empty luggage I was able to fill up with books and merchandise.
Thanks for stopping by and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve lived in Edinburgh for not far off five years, and haven’t heard of many of the bookshops on your list – so thank you for all the recommendations! Lots of new ones for me to explore. The Portobello Bookshop runs some great events (I went to a Jacqueline Wilson one last year that they organised) and I also like browsing The Edinburgh Bookshop in Bruntsfield 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much for your wonderful bookstore suggestions. As my blog post was nearing 3000 words, I had to leave some out, including the one in Portablello and a few other ones. I lived in Edinburgh for three years, but never really went out of my way to visit any of the city’s wonderful bookstores or attend any events hosted by them, which is a bit of a shame. How amazing that you had a chance to attend an event with Britain’s bestselling and most beloved children’s author, that’s pretty cool! Thanks for stopping by, and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know the feeling – sometimes it can be so hard deciding what to leave out! I think that often happens when you live there. It’s almost as though a subconscious “it’ll be there another day”-type thought means you’re never stirred into action. It was a brilliant event – I absolutely loved her books as a child 🙂
LikeLike
Yes, to finding adventures in any of these charming Edinburgh bookshops! Thank you
LikeLiked by 1 person
The act of buying something new can trigger a dopamine rush, which is even more intensified in a bookstore by the excitement of discovery and the aesthetic pleasure of beautiful covers and pages. Thanks for stopping by, and have a lovely day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
It would be a treat to spend time in these shops!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Checking out bookshops in Edinburgh is always are good idea as they have a vast assortment of books and the prices are always incredibly good. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day :)Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope that one day I will be able to immerse myself in the enchanted city of Edinburgh 🙂 Thanks for this post
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you get to visit Edinburgh, especially if you enjoy history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The city offers a unique blend of historic charm, with its medieval Old Town and iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, and modern energy through its pubs, restaurants, and festivals. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day :)Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a uniquely eclectic selection of book stores! A fascinating lens through which to view Edinburgh. I like bookstores when traveling… an opportunity to learn and relax at the same time!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am glad you think so! I find that visiting bookstores while travelling can bring joy because they offer unique, immersive experiences that connect you to a place’s culture and provide a sense of wonder. These spaces allow you to escape the digital noise, discover local authors, and find literary treasures that reflect the destination, making them a cherished part of any trip. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Merry Christmas Aiva: Your post reminds that one of the first places I visit on our next European vacation will be a cozy old bookstore like those you described in Edinburgh. Armchair Books sounds like my “cup of tea” as the expression goes.
LikeLike