By Amelia McCabe, Deputy Arts Editor 25/26
As it turns out, where you buy your books is just as important as what you read. Instead of picking up the latest title from a corporate chain, why not turn to an independent bookshop? Credited for their support of local publishers and their dedication to sustainable business practices, it is apparent that Bristol's indie bookshops stand ten feet above the chains that outnumber them.
What follows is a carefully curated list of Bristol's best independent bookshops, or at least, my opinion of the best. From vintage first editions to affordable latest releases, they have it all - if you give them the chance to prove it.
1. Bookhaus, Wapping Wharf - 4 Rope Walk, Bristol, BS1 6ZJ
As to be expected from its name – a witty play on words which gently nods towards the progressive artistic movement, Bauhaus - Bookhaus boasts a wide selection of politically driven books. From the cartoon collections of Naji Al-Ali to Ha-Joon Chang’s criticism of western capitalism, ‘Bristol’s radical home’, or Bookhaus, offers endless ways to expand your intellect. Yet, its reach is not strictly political; it is also a notable location for its variety of fiction. With over 10 different subheadings designated for fiction books, some of which include 'new stories', 'lives', and 'weird', it is clear that it caters to every student's literary needs.
Bookhaus is also well-renowned for its frequent events. Occurring several times a week, they give you a chance to immerse yourself within a literary world, even if your schedule doesn’t allow for independent reading. So, while you explore the streets of Chandler’s Anchorage or find yourself browsing the artifacts held within M-Shed, don’t miss the chance to lose yourself to the narratives that decorate the walls of Bookhaus.
2. The Last Bookshop, Park Street - 60 Park St, Bristol BS1 5JN
With a price range that doesn’t exceed five pounds and a location practically neighbouring Wills Memorial Building, The Last Bookshop can be credited as one of the most convenient and affordable bookshops for Bristol students. However, don’t assume that its low prices signify that its stock is entirely second-hand. This location’s practice of sourcing overstocked books from the publishing industry – as an alternative to book pulping – allows for the majority of its products to be brand new and cheap.
Alongside its popularity among budget-conscious readers, it is also acclaimed for its curated collection of Wordsworth Classics, and its large selection of non-fiction works. With approximately 8,000 titles which change weekly, this bookshop is not subject to the degree of stagnation that other locations may fall victim to. It even offers products for the non-readers among us. With a large selection of comics and posters, it is suitable for any new (or returning) student whose room suffers from the aesthetics of a hospital.
3. Arnolfini Bookshop, Harbourside - 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA
Arnolfini Bookshop, which shares a building with Arnolfini Art Gallery, is unsurprisingly art focused. Yet, it does not discriminate against the more (may I say) unconventional arts; in addition to its books on artists and critical theory, it also stocks books on photography, architecture, film, nature writing, and culture. Accordingly, it is a place where creatives may acquire all kinds of information that is integral to their craft.
As one of the more unconventional bookshops in Bristol, it also dabbles in lucrative forms of media: magazines and prints. On top of that, the building is fully equipped with a café bar, which overlooks Bristol's historic floating harbour - so, if you find yourself in need of a book and a pint on a Friday afternoon, you know where to head.
4. Second Page, The Galleries - Top Floor, The Galleries, 25 Union St, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3XE
Away from the bustle of Cabot Circus, on the top floor of The Galleries, resides a haven of antique books and decorative hardbacks. As suggested by the name, Second Page, this bookshop salvages used books from unwanted homes and offers them – at a low price – to a new one. From an extensive science fiction collection to a small section on Celtic folklore, it supplies an abundance of genres across both the arts and the sciences. But if you’re strictly a fan of fiction, the five for £15 deal will replenish any diminishing stock of stories for a bargain price.
Not only does this bookshop operate as a literary sanctuary away from the hospital-esque lighting of The Galleries, but it also accommodates those who simply wish to sit and read – with its central decorations being plush leather sofas, equipped with a table in between them, it provides the perfect solution to a rainy day.
5. Dreadnought Books - 125 St George's Rd, Bristol BS1 5UW
Hidden along a less frequently traipsed street in Bristol, Dreadnought Books is most certainly an underappreciated gem. Although it is a smaller location than many other independent bookshops, what it lacks in size is made up for in variety. Housing a range of second-hand books spanning from anthropology and archaeology to economics and business, it is the perfect place to find a vintage cover of your favourite book or to top up your knowledge of Anglo-Saxon buildings.
Its small size also contributes to its cosy atmosphere. Such an atmosphere can only be bettered by the addition of a cat, which conveniently, Dreadnought Books already houses. So, if you happen to be a cat-loving book-enthusiast, this is most definitely the bookshop to visit.
6. Beware Of the Leopard Books - St Nicholas St, Bristol BS1 1LJ
Although it may be located at the heart of St Nicholas’ Market, Beware of the Leopard Books is not restricted to a stock popular fiction, that may typically be expected of it. It stocks anything from rare and collectible hardbacks to a variety of English transport books. As one of Bristol’s longest established bookshops, it is not only its longstanding adherence to tradition that is attractive, but also its historic importance within the literary community.
When visiting this bookshop please remember that, like many other places in St Nicholas’ market, it only accepts cash. So, if you happen to be a fan of vintage editions of Shakespeare, or if you have a niche interest in English transport history, remember to bring your coins to St Nicholas’ market from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
Ruby Wright
At last, I must conclude with a few honorary mentions. These are bookshops that did not quite make it to my favourites, but for those of you who live in Clifton or Bedminster, they come highly recommended. These include Heron Books in Clifton, Max Minerva's in Henleaze, and finally, the award winning StorySmith in Bedminster.
Featured Image: Beware the Leopard Books, St Nicholas St | Epigram / Amelia McCabe
What independent bookshops in Bristol do you love?
