Bristol is a city of good vibes and quirky culture, and home to numerous bookshops and literary events that reflect this.
Here are a few recommendations from us to you for some booky explores through our city:
Bookshops in Bristol worth visiting
Bristol is home to many charming independent bookshops, each with its own unique character and selection of books. Here are just a few of some of the wonderful bookshops to add to your bookshop tour of Bristol.
Max Minerva’s Marvellous Books
Located in the neighborhood of Westbury Park, Max Minerva’s is more than just a bookshop; it’s a community hub for readers and writers alike. The shop stocks a curated selection of contemporary and classic fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. Max Minerva’s also hosts regular events, including book clubs, author talks, and writing workshops, making it a must-visit for any literature enthusiast.
Storysmith
Tucked away in the vibrant area of Bedminster, Storysmith is known for its friendly atmosphere and expert recommendations. The shop has a focus on fiction, with a carefully selected range of books that cater to all tastes. They also have a great collection of titles from independent publishers. Storysmith regularly holds events, such as book signings and readings, and their monthly subscription service is a hit among local readers. They even serve coffee – what’s not to like?
Gloucester Road Books
Located on one of Bristol’s most iconic streets, Gloucester Road Books is a treasure trove for book lovers. This independent bookshop is packed with a diverse range of books, from contemporary bestsellers to hard-to-find classics. The shop has a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with knowledgeable staff always on hand to offer recommendations. Gloucester Road Books also hosts a variety of literary events, including author signings and readings. It’s worth having a look to see if anyone is giving a talk during your stay!
Secondhand bookshops can be found throughout Bristol, from independent secondhand bookshops to charity bookshops.
The Last Bookshop
Situated in the heart of the city, The Last Bookshop is a must-visit for those who love a good bargain without compromising on quality. The shop offers a wide range of discounted books, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s titles. With its friendly vibe and well-curated selection, The Last Bookshop is a great place to discover something new or to pick up a classic at an affordable price. Extra points to the name too!
Books for Amnesty
Books for Amnesty, situated on Gloucester Road, is a charity bookshop worth checking out. The selection is vast and the prices are reasonable. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to combine their love of literature with social impact. And if you’re staying at the Bristol Wing, that’s even more social impact! Add this to your list of Gloucester Road activities.
Beware of the Leopard Books
One of the oldest bookshops in Bristol, Beware of the Leopard Books is a haven for second-hand book lovers. The shop is named after a famous quote from Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” and it carries the same quirky, eclectic spirit. The shelves are packed with a diverse selection of genres, including sci-fi, fantasy, classics, and non-fiction. The staff are passionate about books and are always ready to help you find your next great read. This one is located just around the corner in St. Nicholas Markets, where you will find lots of other weird and wonderful things, and some incredible food while you’re there!
Literary Festivals and Fairs in Bristol
Bristol’s literary scene is dynamic and inclusive, with a range of events that celebrate the written word in all its forms.
Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival
For poetry lovers, Lyra Bristol Poetry Festival is a highlight of the year. This event showcases the best of local and national poetry through readings, slams, workshops, and open mic nights. The festival attracts a range of voices, from established poets to newcomers, and it offers a supportive platform for sharing new work. It takes place in the springtime, and will be running next year (2025) from 25th April – 4th May.
Spike Island Open Studios & Book Fair
Spike Island, an international center for contemporary art and design, hosts an annual Open Studios event, which includes a popular book fair. The fair brings together independent publishers, artists, and writers, offering a wide selection of books, zines, and other printed matter. It’s a great place to discover new works and meet the people behind them.
Bristol Artist Book Exhibition (BABE)
This epic event takes place every other year. It is organised by the Centre for Fine Print Research at UWE Bristol and usually takes place at the Bower Ashton campus. It is a fantastic weekend-long event full of printmaking, artist books, zines and more.
