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Get Lost in Lit: Explore Edinburgh’s 14 Best Bookshops
You know what? Forget mindlessly scrolling through your ex’s Instagram or debating whether socks with sliders can actually be considered a fashion statement (they can’t, so stop trying to make it happen, Greg).
Let’s talk about something far superior and infinitely more satisfying: bookshops in Edinburgh. And no, before you ask, these aren’t the dusty old tomes that smell like your great-aunt Martha’s attic.
I’m talking about the kind of spots that can make you forget (for a while) that you have a smartphone or, dare I say, an ex. So read on, and trust me, it’ll be more exciting than any episode of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.”
Waterstones
Website: https://www.waterstones.com/bookshops/edinburgh-west-end
Address: 128 Princes St.
Contact details: +44 131 226 2666
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: £-££
Waterstones is massive, and they’ve got floors—actually, multiple floors—stacked with books. Whether you’re into the latest bestsellers or some obscure philosophy texts, they’ve pretty much got everything.
They also have a great selection of stationery and gifts, along with a kid’s section, making it a family-friendly spot. And if you fancy a break from all that browsing, they’ve got a café on the top floor with some lovely views of the castle.
Pro tip:
Waterstones offers gift cards, which are perfect if you’re not sure which book to grab for a friend—or, let’s be real, even for yourself.
Plus, it’s just a short stroll from Edinburgh Castle, so you can pair your book hunt with some sightseeing.
Golden Hare Books
Website: http://www.goldenharebooks.com/
Address: 68 St Stephen St.
Contact details: +44 131 225 7755
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: £-££
Now, if you’re after something a bit more boutique, Golden Hare Books is your spot. They’ve got this eclectic mix of new titles, literary fiction, beautifully illustrated children’s books, and even some gems you won’t find anywhere else.
The interiors are just as charming as the books—kind of like you’re stepping into a friend’s cosy living room, filled with books. They’re big on community vibes too, hosting book groups and author readings that feel super intimate and special.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to check out their event calendar; the talks are often enlightening, and it’s a great way to engage with the local literary scene. The shop is snug too, so visiting on weekdays might offer a more leisurely browse.
Armchair Books
Website: http://www.armchairbooks.co.uk/
Address: 72-74 West Port
Contact details: +44 131 229 5927
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6:30 PM
Cost: £-££
Armchair Books is a quirky, packed-to-the-rafters haven for second-hand and antiquarian books. Walking in feels like stepping into a book cave—it’s wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling with books!
You’ll find stacks of rare and vintage books, sci-fi, poetry, and pretty much everything in between. The folks running it know their stuff and are always up for a chat or to help unearth a hidden treasure.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for something specific, or a rare edition, the staff here are incredibly helpful and can often dig out hidden gems on request.
Nearby is the Grassmarket area, great for a post-book hunt meal or drink.
The Edinburgh Bookshop
Website: http://www.edinburghbookshop.com/
Address: 219 Bruntsfield Pl.
Contact details: +44 131 447 1917
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 4 PM
Cost: £-££
The Edinburgh Bookshop is an award-winning independent shop that is small but mighty, with shelves stocked full of hand-picked books that cater to every age and interest.
They have a particularly strong selection of children’s books, making them a hit with families.
They have loads of events for kids, book clubs that don’t feel stuffy, and recommendations that make you feel like you’re chatting books with a friend over coffee.
Pro tip:
Edinburgh Bookshop offers these magical things called shop vouchers that come in various denominations, so you can tailor your gift to your budget. Seriously, it’s a game changer for gift shopping, so check for those on their website.
Also, take advantage of their book clubs and reading groups if you’re around for a longer period of time.
McNaughtan’s Bookshop
Website: http://www.mcnaughtans.co.uk/
Address: 3A, 4a Haddington Pl.
Contact details: +44 131 556 5897
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Cost: £-££
McNaughtan’s Bookshop is one of the oldest second-hand and antiquarian bookshops in Scotland. They’ve got everything from vintage maps to first editions of classic novels and rare finds to loads of Scottish literature and history books.
What’s really cool about McNaughtan’s is the gallery space. Yes, they’ve got an art gallery that hosts exhibitions, and somehow, the art and the books just complement each other perfectly.
They’ve got this comfortable reading area too, where you can sit and leaf through a potential book without feeling rushed.
Pro tip:
McNaughtan’s has an impressive online catalog that’s regularly updated with its latest acquisitions, from rare finds to the classics.
By checking out their offerings online first, you can get a sneak peek at what treasures await and even make a mental (or physical) wishlist.
Portobello Bookshop
Website: https://www.theportobellobookshop.com/
Address: 46 Portobello High St.
Contact details: +44 131 629 6756
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: £-££
Portobello Bookshop is right by the beach, so it’s got this laid-back, seaside town vibe. The shop itself is spacious and modern, with a stunning design that makes book browsing feel almost gallery-like.
They cover a wide range of genres, with plenty of contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and a delightful children’s section. There’s also a lovely little section of local authors and titles related to Edinburgh, perfect for visitors wanting a memento.
They’re also really involved with the community, hosting author events, book signings, and even book club meetings that are open and friendly.
Pro tip:
After grabbing a book, take a walk down to the beach. It’s a wonderful spot to start your new read.
Keep an eye on their social media for event announcements; they often host some great ones!
Typewronger Books
Website: http://www.typewronger.com/
Address: 4a Haddington Pl
Contact details: +44 131 556 5897
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Cost: £-££
Typewronger Books is this quirky little spot that feels like the coolest mash-up between a bookshop and a typewriter repair shop. Yes, you read that right. They actually sell and repair typewriters, along with selling books.
It’s got a funky, eclectic mix of new and second-hand books that you can dig through. The selection isn’t massive, but it’s thoughtfully curated, and you can tell each book earned its spot on the shelf for a reason.
If you’re into zines or looking for something off the beaten path, you’ll probably find it here.
Pro tip:
Definitely check out their typewriters, even if you’re not in the market for one. There’s something super cool about typing out a note or a quote on an actual typewriter.
They also hold writing workshops and events, perfect for literary buffs and aspiring writers.
Lighthouse Bookshop
Website: http://www.lighthousebookshop.com/
Address: 43-45 W Nicolson St, Newington
Contact details: +44 131 662 9112
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost: £-££
Lighthouse Bookshop is a serious contender for being the most welcoming and inclusive bookshop in Edinburgh. They specialize in books that shake things up—think radical, political, feminist, LGBTQ+, and environmental topics.
The selection is incredibly diverse, with shelves dedicated to voices and stories from all walks of life. Plus, the shop hosts some fantastic events, from book launches to discussions and workshops that reflect its ethos.
Pro tip:
Lighthouse has an excellent events program, so check it out beforehand and you might catch something really cool. Oh, and if you’re into activism or looking for literature that’s a bit off the beaten track, this place should be your first stop.
Tills Bookshop
Website: https://tillsbookshop.co.uk/
Address: 1 Hope Park Cres, Newington
Contact details: +44 131 667 0895
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Cost: £-££
Tills Bookshop is packed from floor to ceiling with second-hand books that cover just about every topic you could think of. You know, stacks of fiction, poetry, history, and then some rare books you might not find anywhere else.
What’s more, they’ve got this little reading nook that’s perfect for flipping through your finds while enjoying a coffee from their coffee shop. Plus, the prices are super reasonable, so you can walk out with an armful of books and your wallet won’t weep.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for something specific, don’t hesitate to ask for help. The layout is charmingly chaotic, so it’s easy to miss things.
And if you’re into vintage books, keep an eye out; they have some real old beauties on occasion.
John Kay’s Bookshop
Website: https://www.facebook.com/johnkayshop/
Address: 8 Victoria St.
Contact details: +44 131 629 5880
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 7 PM
Cost: £-££
John Kay’s Bookshop is a quirky little spot with a façade that could double as a film set. It’s packed to the rafters with books—new, second-hand, and collectible ones.
The range here is fantastic; whether you’re into fiction, history, or rare collectibles, John Kay’s has got you covered. John Kay’s also has a fun assortment of prints and local artworks, which, by the way, are worth a browse.
Pro tip:
Since it’s on the tourist trail, try hitting it up early in the morning when the city’s still waking up, so you can browse in peace.
After your visit, take a stroll down Victoria Street itself; it’s got some great cafes and is a stone’s throw away from the Royal Mile.
Blackwell’s Bookshop
Website: http://blackwells.co.uk/shops
Address: 53-62 South Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 622 8222
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Cost: £-££
Blackwell’s Bookshop is massive, spreading over several floors, each dedicated to different genres and interests. You could easily spend a whole day here and not see everything.
They’ve got everything from academic texts to fiction, graphic novels, and a huge children’s section. They even have a music room where you can score some vinyl records or sheet music.
Pro tip:
Their academic section is a gold mine for students or anyone keen on deepening their expertise in a subject.
If you’re visiting during the Edinburgh Festival, Blackwell’s is buzzing with special events—a total must for cultural buffs.
Rare Birds Bookshop
Website: https://rarebirdsbooks.com/pages/visit-us
Address: 13 Raeburn Pl.
Contact details: [email protected].
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: £-££
Rare Birds Bookshop is a vibrant beacon for anyone who loves reading but is tired of the same old, male-dominated narratives. They’ve got fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, all with one thing in common: female authors who can write up a storm.
Moreover, they host book clubs and events that are aimed at bringing people together, creating a space that’s both inspiring and inclusive. Also, you’ll find some eye-catching stationery and gifts; it’s not huge, but each item is thoughtfully chosen.
Pro tip:
Make sure you keep tabs on their social media for their reading groups and events; they’re a great way to connect with the community.
Plus, Stockbridge Market is right there on Sundays, so you can grab a book and then some street food for a perfect weekend vibe.
Topping & Company Booksellers
Website: https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/
Address: 2 Blenheim Pl.
Contact details: +44 131 546 4202
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Cost: £-££
Topping & Company Booksellers is a reader’s dream with towering bookshelves with ladders—you know, the kind you’d scamper up just to pull out a book like you’re Belle from Beauty and the Beast.
The collection they’ve got going is seriously impressive; from the hottest new releases to those mind-bending special editions, they cover all the bases.
One thing you gotta see is their massive spread of hardbacks—we’re talking quality prints that look good on any bookshelf. What’s more, they have this policy where you can sit and read with a pot of tea; isn’t that just brilliant?
Pro tip:
If you prefer a quieter browse, weekday mornings are your best bet. And don’t forget to ask about their loyalty program—it’s a sweet deal for any book enthusiast!
Argonaut Books
Website: http://argonautbooks.co.uk/
Address: 15-17 Leith Walk
Contact details: +44 131 259 7816
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
Cost: £-££
Argonaut Books is where it’s at if you want something a bit different. The moment you walk in, you’ll notice there’s a funky collection of both new and used books.
And it’s not just the usual suspects here; they’ve got indie titles, graphic novels, and all sorts of offbeat reads that you might not find in more mainstream spots.
They’re also really into local zines and small press stuff, which is pretty cool if you like to support the underdog writers and artists out there. And if you’re into Scottish literature, they have a selection that delves into the nitty-gritty of Edinburgh’s literary heartbeat.
Pro tip:
Remember to keep an eye on their social media for spontaneous sales; you could snag a rare book for a bargain.
And hey, if you’ve worked up an appetite from all the book browsing, you’re on Leith Walk; there are heaps of cafes and eateries to refuel.