When you think of Edinburgh, it’s hard not to imagine its cobblestone streets lined with cozy cafés, historic architecture, and literary history on every corner. This city is a haven of bookshops for book lovers, each with its unique charm. Whether after rare vintage finds or modern page-turners, Edinburgh has the perfect spot for every kind of reader.
If you’re anything like me, the smell of old books is like an instant passport to another world. The cozy warmth of a hidden bookstore with shelves overflowing and a cup of coffee in hand? Absolute perfection. And when in Edinburgh, there’s nothing quite like exploring its bookshops. Let’s dive into the best bookshops in Edinburgh, where you can spend hours getting lost among pages.
1) Armchair Books
- Address: 72-74 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2LE
- Contact: +44 131 229 5927
- Timings: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Website: https://www.armchairbooks.co.uk/
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armchairbooksedinburgh/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armchairbooks.edinburgh/
Tucked away on West Port, Armchair Books is a hidden treasure for anyone who loves vintage books. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by shelves arch overhead, crammed with stories from the past. The shop is small but packed with so much character you could easily get lost in its narrow aisles for hours.
Pro Tip: Take your time here. The bookshelves tend to surprise you with rare finds tucked in between. Don’t rush – you never know what forgotten gem you might discover.
2) McNaughtan’s Bookshop
- Address: 3A, 4a Haddington Pl, Edinburgh EH7 4AE, United Kingdom
- Contact: +44 131 556 5897
- Timings: Mon-Sat: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Except Thursday (11 AM -8 PM)
- Website: https://www.mcnaughtans.co.uk/
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcnbooks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcnbooks/
Are you looking for a combination of old and new? McNaughtan’s and Typewronger Books are two unique shops connected by a single doorway, offering the best of both worlds. McNaughtan’s is your go-to for vintage finds; it adds a fun twist with new books and even typewriter repair services. Yep, you read that right – you can fix your old typewriter while browsing for your next read. How cool is that?
Ask for a cup of tea while you browse, and if you’re feeling creative, try typing a note on one of the store’s typewriters. Who knows? Maybe you’ll walk out with your very own masterpiece.
3) Topping and Company
- Address: 2 Blenheim Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5JH
- Contact: +44 131 546 4202
- Timings: Mon-Sun: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Website: www.toppingbooks.co.uk
- Google Rating: 4.9/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toppingsedin/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToppingsEdin/
Once a bank, now a book lover’s paradise – Topping and Company is an absolute must-visit. With its maze-like rooms, each one dedicated to different genres, you’ll feel like you’re on a treasure hunt. Plus, the views from the windows are just as enchanting as the books inside.
They offer complimentary tea, so feel free to sip while you browse. Take it slow and explore every room; you won’t want to miss a thing.
4) Golden Hare Books
- Address: 68 St Stephen St, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 5AQ
- Contact: +44 131 225 7755
- Timings: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Website: https://goldenharebooks.com/
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenharebooks/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoldenHareBooks/
In the picturesque area of Stockbridge lies Golden Hare Books, a minimal yet cozy space with a lovely wood-burning stove. The shop may be small, but it’s bursting with charm, making it the perfect spot for a quiet afternoon browse. Don’t miss the kids’ corner – it’s a dream for little readers.
If you’re visiting children, head straight for the kids’ section. The quirky setup and selection of books will keep them entertained while you enjoy a peaceful browse.
5) Cabaret Antiques
- Address: 137 West Port, Edinburgh EH3 9DP, United Kingdom
- Contact: +44 131 229 4100
- Timings: Wed-Saturday: 13:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Sun, Monday, Tuesday: Closed
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cabaretantiques/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CabaretAntiquesCuriosBooks/?locale=en_GB
What might look like a tiny antique shop from the outside is a secret book haven. Walk upstairs to explore trinkets and antiques, but the magic happens downstairs. The basement is filled floor to ceiling with vintage books, making it one of Edinburgh’s most unique book-shopping experiences.
Don’t be fooled by the shop’s size. Head straight to the basement for the real treat – shelves filled with rare and unusual books waiting to be discovered.
6) Blackwell’s
- Address: 53-62 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1YS
- Contact: +44 131 622 8222
- Timings: Mon-Sat: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sun: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Website: https://blackwells.co.uk/
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackwellbooks/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwellbooks/
Blackwell’s is a must for anyone visiting Edinburgh. It’s the city’s oldest bookshop and boasts an impressive collection over multiple floors. From academic resources to timeless classics, this shop has it all. Its proximity to Edinburgh University gives it an intellectual buzz, making it a favorite among students and bookworms.
Pro Tip: If you need a quiet spot to read, grab a seat near the windows overlooking the university. The view is as inspiring as the books inside.
7) The Edinburgh Bookshop
- Address: 176 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DF, United Kingdom
- Contact: +44 131 447 1917
- Timings: Mon-Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Thursday – Saturday: 9:30 AM- 6 PM, Sun: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Website: https://www.edinburghbookshop.com/
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theedinburghbookshop/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EdinBookshop/
In West Port, Edinburgh Bookshop is a charming, labyrinth-like bookshop that feels like a time capsule. You’ll find rooms dedicated to Scotland’s history, maps, and postcards alongside shelves overflowing with vintage treasures.
Pro Tip: This shop is all about slow exploration. Take your time, especially in the room filled with Scotland’s history – you might walk out with more than you intended.
8) Waterstones
- Address: 31B Newcraighall Rd, Edinburgh EH15 3RD, United Kingdom
- Contact: +44 131 344 4754
- Timings: Mon-Sat: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sun: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Website: https://www.waterstones.com/bookshops/edinburgh-fort-kinnaird
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waterstones/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waterstones/
Waterstones is a familiar name, but its location offers something special: a jaw-dropping view of Edinburgh Castle. This three-floor store is packed with books, but the café with its castle view makes it a standout spot. Perfect for when you need a break from shopping.
Pro Tip: Arrive early if you want to snag a window seat. Pair your book with a hot drink and enjoy one of the best views in the city.
9) The Gently Mad Bookshop
- Address: 2 Summer Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NR
- Contact: +44 7702 592972
- Timings: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Website: https://www.thegentlymad.co.uk/
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegentlymadbookshop/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegentlymad/
This little shop is a quirky delight, filled with rows of books and a bookbinder’s workshop at the back. It’s a unique mix of old and new, offering books and the option to have them bound and restored.
Pro Tip: Bring your worn-out books here for some TLC at the bookbinder’s workshop. It’s the perfect place to give old favorites a new life.
10) Tills Bookshop
- Address: 1 Hope Park Cres, Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9NA, United Kingdom
- Contact: +44 131 667 0895
- Timings: Mon-Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sun: 12 PM – 5 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Website: https://www.tillsbookshop.co.uk/
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tillsbookshop/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tillsbookshop/
Right by the Meadows, Tills is a cozy second-hand book that is a dream for vintage book lovers. The walls scream Wes Anderson vibes with their vintage Ladybird books and quirky decor, and there’s even an old police box outside where you can buy some of their favorites.
Pro Tip: The police box outside is a hidden gem – keep an eye out for some of the shop’s rarest finds there.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best bookshops in Edinburgh. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to curl up with a book, searching for rare literary treasures, or want to soak in the cozy charm of a vintage shop, Edinburgh’s bookshops have it all.
Each one is unique in its way, and trust me, you’ll want to visit them all. Happy book hunting!
FAQ’s
1) What is the most amazing bookshop?
Many book lovers consider Shakespeare and Company in Paris one of the most amazing, but Armchair Books stands out in Edinburgh with its charming, vintage atmosphere.
2) What is the best shopping street in Edinburgh?
Princes Street is Edinburgh’s most famous shopping street, offering a wide variety of stores and great views of Edinburgh Castle.
3) What is the best city in the UK for bookshops?
Edinburgh is considered one of the best cities in the UK for bookshops, thanks to its rich literary history and various independent bookstores.
4) Is Topping and Company bookshop legit?
Topping and Company is a legitimate and famous bookshop known for its extensive collection and welcoming atmosphere.
