Reading is so so important nowadays, especially as physical media is slowly disappearing. Here are some new places to explore when you’re out with a friend or even on a solo date! With huge corporations slowly taking over the bookselling business, it’s more important than ever to support your local bookstores.
Glasgow
This city is full of wonderful indie booksellers, many of them are quite popular. I could not start this list without mentioning my lovely charity bookshop, Chapter One.
Chapter One is the first Chest, Heart, and Stroke Scotland Bookshop, located in Trongate it runs on donated books for the most part. The managers also pick out a variety of new books to stock up on each month, which include indie publishers such as Charco Press. They have a super wide variety for every kind of taste, from a special Scotland section to social sciences, children’s books and some novelty items like wax melts and pins.
Nearby is also Sector 7, located on Saltmarket near Glasgow Green. They are a specialised bookshop who sell Sci-Fi, Horror, and Fantasy. They have a massive variety of books in these genres, and you’ll be able to find some truly hidden gems, among which you’ll find signed copies. Among beautiful, rare editions you will also stumble among vintage books. Perfect for those who seek a little magic in everything.
Edinburgh
Sprawling with tourists and sick of not finding a seat at the TikTok famous Waterstones on Princes Street? Find your new favourite book at these bookshops.
If you want to try new things, find a great book written by great women. Rare Birds Bookshop is an indie bookshop who only sell books written by women. Located in Stockbridge, they have a variety of genres and a beautiful space where they also hold events – it’s a favourite of mine to browse through.
Perhaps a more popular one is Portobello Bookshop, which as the name implies is located in Portobello. They have a wide collection and also host regular events, signings, and a book club for younger readers over summer. They have super knowledgeable staff who love to help you find anything you might be looking for.
Nairn
A seaside town, with a super cozy bookshop, yeah sign me up!
The Nairn Bookshop is a super cute place when you want to escape to the highlands for a bit. They have anything and everything you might want to read with a great selection for children. You can also find them online, but I recommend visiting in person just to see the shop’s beautiful exterior.
Dollar
The Wee Bookshop perfectly matches its name. located in Dollar which is just a train ride away from Glasgow it’s a perfect stop in a day trip to this picturesque town. Incredibly cosy with a café in the back, the atmosphere is unmatched. Perhaps some of the best stocked regarding outdoorsy topics, with a variety of maps, hiking trails, and cycling routes in the area. Perfect for those who crave small town vibes.
Fort WILLIAM
Finishing the West Highland Way? Starting the Great Glen Way? Make a pitstop in The Highland Bookshop, which is certifiably adorable with its tartan floor. They have a second hand section, an amazing variety of genres and if they’re ever caught lacking they will track down whatever you need. Just a doorstep away from the sea and tucked into a cute corner – it’s not one to miss.
Wigtown
Fear not for I have not left out the beloved Scottish Book Town. Home to 17 bookshops total most which are independent businesses, each street sprawling with treasures, old and new. Whether you’re there to find a hidden gem or just because of the fairy tale aesthetic it is not one to miss!
Whether you’re taking a day trip or just out for a wander, pop into any of these to immerse yourself into a literary heaven.