From Crime to Classics: The Best Bookshops in London for Every Kind of Reader
Whether you're a die-hard fantasy fan, a poetry lover, or someone who just wants a nice spot to sniff old paperbacks (we see you), London has a bookshop for you.
Forget the big chains — this city is stacked with independent gems, quirky corners, and iconic literary institutions. Some are grand, some are hidden in basements, and some even serve coffee alongside your next favourite novel.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best bookshops in London — organised by genre, vibe, and reader type.
For Literary Fiction & General Browsing
1. Daunt Books, Marylebone
A true London classic. Housed in an Edwardian shop with oak galleries and skylights, Daunt is a must-visit for any book lover.
Best For: Travel writing, literary fiction, beautiful editions
Vibe: Quiet, historic, and incredibly photogenic
2. Foyles, Charing Cross Road
The big daddy of London bookshops. With five floors of every genre imaginable, it’s overwhelming in the best way.
Best For: General browsing, new releases, staff picks
Bonus: There’s a café inside for post-book-hunting snacks
For Mystery, Crime & Thrillers
3. Goldsboro Books, Covent Garden
Specialises in signed first editions, particularly crime and thriller novels. It’s like stepping into a collector’s secret lair.
Best For: Rare finds, signed hardbacks
Tip: Check their website for limited releases and pre-orders
4. Waterstones, Gower Street
Okay yes, it's a chain — but this branch is so massive and well-curated that it deserves a spot here. Their crime and thriller section is one of the best in the city.
Best For: Huge range, in-store events, student-friendly location
Nearby: University College London, making it a hub for bookish types
For Sci-Fi & Fantasy Lovers
5. Forbidden Planet, Shaftesbury Avenue
Part comic shop, part bookshop, part geek heaven. From Tolkien to Sanderson, this place has every magical, dystopian, or alien-filled world you could want.
Best For: Sci-fi, fantasy, comics, graphic novels
Bonus: Action figures, board games, and author signings galore
6. Skoob Books, Bloomsbury
An underground treasure trove of second-hand books. Brilliant for finding out-of-print sci-fi or fantasy gems.
Best For: Bargain hunting, obscure titles
Vibe: Dusty, crammed, delightful
For Romance & Feel-Good Fiction
7. The Notting Hill Bookshop
Yes, that Notting Hill bookshop. While it’s small and often packed, it’s perfect for picking up a charming read or giving in to your Julia Roberts fantasy.
Best For: Rom-coms, London-themed fiction
Vibe: Touristy but adorable
8. Libreria, Shoreditch
Stylish, curated, and non-linear. Books here aren’t organised by genre but by broad themes like “The Future” or “Wanderlust.” Surprisingly good romance section hidden in the mix.
Best For: Readers who like a little chaos with their charm
Vibe: Very Instagrammable
For Poetry & Philosophy
9. London Review Bookshop, Bloomsbury
Owned by the London Review of Books, this is the thinking reader’s paradise. The poetry and theory sections are serious and top-tier.
Best For: Modern poetry, classics, radical thought
Bonus: The adjoining Cake Shop is legendary
10. Housmans, King’s Cross
A radical bookshop with a strong focus on social justice, philosophy, and alternative politics. Deep, bold, and full of heart.
Best For: Zines, manifestos, modern poetry
Vibe: Anti-establishment and fiercely independent
For Art, Design & Visual Lovers
11. Magma, Covent Garden
A haven for creatives. Books on design, photography, fashion, and typography fill this compact but stylish store.
Best For: Coffee table books, visual inspiration
Vibe: Trendy and artistic
12. The Photographers’ Gallery Bookshop, Soho
Small but mighty, with rare photography books, indie magazines, and visual storytelling of all kinds.
Best For: Photo essays, limited edition art books
Tip: Explore the gallery upstairs too
For Children’s & YA Readers
13. Tales on Moon Lane, Herne Hill
An award-winning independent children’s bookshop, full of colour, magic, and everything from baby books to teen novels.
Best For: Gifts, early readers, passionate recommendations
Bonus: Run by people who love kids’ books (and it shows)
14. Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End
Books, events, AND a theatre space — this one’s a real community hub for young readers.
Best For: Engaging children in storytelling
Events: Storytime, author visits, workshops
Final Chapter
London isn’t just a city for foodies, fashionistas, or history buffs. It’s paradise for people who still believe in the magic of books. Whether you’re after niche political zines or the perfect beach read, there's a corner in this city waiting just for you — filled with pages, characters, and the scent of fresh print.
So the next time you're out wandering the streets, skip the online cart and support a real-life book haven. You might just discover your next favourite read — and a new favourite spot to find it.
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