“Independent booksellers – it’s not exaggerating to say that they are lantern bearers of civilisation” Sir Philip Pullman
Chapter One, Manchester
Chapter One began out of a family’s love for great books, amazing cakes and good coffee. They now bring quirky reads, author events and intimate performances to Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
House of Books and Friends, Manchester
House of Books and Friends was born out of lockdown, and the belief that books can help prevent loneliness. All of their profits go into funding projects in the local area that promote connection in the community.
The Modernist, Manchester
The Modernist is the only bookshop in Manchester specialising in architecture and design. With focus on modernist architecture, graphics, typography, transport, furniture and product design, they also sell products from cushions to mugs.
Forum Books, Northumberland
“There’s nothing like a real book & nothing like a real bookshop!“
Forum Books sell a wide range of books, including new releases, bestsellers, fiction, art and design, children’s books, business books, cookery books, general non-fiction, poetry, and local history, as well as special gift editions.
Cogito Books, Northumberland
Since opening in 2001, Cogito Books have dedicated their energy into discovering reading gems, delivering the best customer service, and creating a place of inspiration. With over 10,000 titles, Cogito Books stock titles rom all genres, including a specialist children’s area. They also offer reading groups and author events.
Barter Books, Northumberland
One of the most popular indie bookshops, Barter is a stunning building with hidden treasures. Full to the brim with fiction books, bestsellers, non-fiction, biographies, gardening, history, cookbooks, and a dedicated children’s space, Barter is loved for many reasons.
News From Nowhere, Liverpool
News From Nowhere is Liverpool’s not-for-profit radical & community bookshop – established in 1974, and run collectively by a workers’ co-operative. They focus on books covering feminism, anti-racism, LGBTQ+, workers’ rights, disability rights, sustainability, socialism etc. as well as fiction, poetry, and children’s books.
Ebb & Flo, Lancashire
A small & friendly bookshop in the Lancashire market town of Chorley, Ebb & Flo pride themselves on being a positive contribution to the community. They sell everything from new releases to memoirs, puzzle books, bestselling fiction, and travel guides.
Pritchards Bookshop, Liverpool
Opening in 1975, Pritchards stock a range of books across fiction, non-fiction, poetry, plays, travel, and books for young readers, as well as gifts, stationery, greeting cards, and bookmarks. They also invite guest authors into speak including Kate Gray, and Clare Pooley.
Sam Read Bookseller, Grasmere
Established in 1887, Sam Read Bookseller has taken advantage of their position in the country, connected to so many literary greats including Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. They stock fiction and non-fiction, and specialise in local interest books.
Fred’s Books, Ambleside
Originating in 1956, Fred’s Books is a small bookshop nestled in the heart of the Lake District. Often complimented on their diverse range of books, they take pride in stocking one of nearly everything. Their strengths lie in a comprehensive range of local maps, guides, and books, as well as a range of adult fiction and a children’s section.
Simply Books, Bramhall
Established in 2002, Simply Books is an award-winning independent bookshop based in the heart of Bramhall. They stock new releases, bestsellers, classics, shortlisted titles, non-fiction, and children’s books. They welcome in popular authors such as Alex T Smith, David Nicholls, Becky Excell, and Adam Kay.
*Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of bookshops. All photos sourced from each individual shop’s online presence. If you have any concerns regarding the photos, or concern regarding the text, please get in touch.
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