Visit Bristol's Independent Bookshops and Uncover Literary Treasures
Bristol, a city teeming with history, culture, and vibrant communities, holds a special allure for book lovers. Found within its charming streets are its independent bookshops waiting to be discovered by avid readers.
The independent bookshops contribute to Bristol's vibrant literary scene, offering a range of titles, hosting events and a world you can escape into via pages. From family-run shops to quirky boutiques, each bookstore has its own distinct charm.:
Here's a list of Bristol bookshops:
1. Storysmith Bristol - Located in Bedminster on North Street, Storysmith Books offers a carefully curated selection of books across various genres and hosts regular events. The bookshop also serves coffee, so you can enjoy a brew while browsing.
2. Max Minerva's Marvellous Books - Situated in Henleaze and Portishead, this award-winning bookshop, Max Minerva's Marvellous Books, is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of titles, including signed copies.
3. Bloom & Curll - In Clifton Village, Bloom & Curll showcases a collection of books focusing on quality literature and local authors. The space is also used for poetry, music and art.
4. The Last Bookshop – On Park Street in the city centre, The Last Bookshop is a treasure trove of second hand pre-loved books. Most books are £4 or less. They specialise in buying book returns, remainders and samples.
5. Stanfords Bristol - Situated on Corn Street, Stanfords is one of Bristol's oldest independent bookshops. It is a haven for travel enthusiasts, featuring a wide selection of maps, guides, and travel literature.
6. Foyles Bristol - Located in Cabot Circus, across the road from our hotel Future Inns, Foyles is the renowned chain bookstore. As one of the book shops in Bristol city centre, Foyles offers a diverse range of books and hosts regular author events.
7. Bookhaus Bristol - On Rope Walk in Wapping Wharf, Bookhaus embodies Bristol's tradition as a centre of radicalism, with a strong emphasis on politics. However, visitors will also find cookbooks, sci-fi, contemporary fiction and timeless classics.
8. Arnolfini Bookshop – The bookshop is within the Arnolfini art gallery. The stock is an extension of cutting-edge and contemporary art. There are titles on art, artists, craft and history. NHS, Blue Light workers and students also get 10% off.
9. Clifton Community Bookshop – If you're looking for second-hand book shops in Bristol, the Clifton Community Bookshop sells low-cost books for as little as £2. Volunteers also run it. There are also yoga classes, book clubs, live music and weekly talks.
10. Dreadnought Books – At the foot of Brandon Hill is Dreadnought Books. The wall-to-wall bookshelves are filled with eclectic old books and comfy sofas and chairs. They even have a cuddly cat running around, too!
11. Gloucester Road Books – There is a significant focus on titles published by small independents. Gloucester Road Books covers history, travel literature and geography, and the store has many regular events.
12. Heron Books – known as Bristol's smallest bookshop, Heron Books in The Clifton Arcade is ideal if you're looking for a good book. The shop stocks almost 4000 books, including fiction, non-fiction and children's books.
13. Beware of the Leopard Books - There are over 25,000 books at Beware of the Leopard, established as one of the oldest bookshops in the South West. Found in St Nicholas Markets, you're bound to find something to read here, from history to transport to academic subjects.
14. The Small City Bookshop - Offering adult and children's books and graphic novels, The Small City Bookshop is a haven for book lovers. The events calendar is always packed and exciting with author readings, book launches and Q&As.
Bristol's independent bookshops are more than just places to buy books – they are sanctuaries for the soul, havens of creativity, and pillars of community spirit. So, the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of this enchanting city, be sure to step inside one of its many independent bookshops.
Bedrooms at Future Inn Bristol
Located in Bristol city centre, directly opposite Cabot Circus, our Bristol hotel boasts 149 spacious, air-conditioned, en-suite bedrooms offering all the facilities and services you would expect of a quality 4-star hotel at affordable prices.
With our super flexible rates, you can book with confidence when staying at Future Inn Bristol. Book direct for the best rates guaranteed, with rooms from £67 per room per night. Plus, kids stay free!
Book your stay online or with our Reservations Team on 0117 304 1010 or check availability by emailing reservations.bristol@futureinns.co.uk.
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. For every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. Plus, you get double points when you dine in the restaurant. Points can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine in the restaurant and a member's discount rate. It's also completely free to join!
Dishes on the menu in Chophouse Restaurant
Chophouse Restaurant is ideal for fuelling up before or after a day of exploring Bristol independent bookshops. The team serves breakfast, lunch, or an evening a-la-carte menu. All produce is local, and the food is homemade on-site. Our set menu offers 3 courses for £26 daily from 5pm. If you are staying in the hotel, room service is available 24/7. Plus, kids eat free!
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands. Our local selection includes Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum. An extensive gin and mixer menu and 2 for £16 cocktails.
Reservations can be made on 0117 304 1010 or by emailing chophouse@futureinns.co.uk. Alternatively, you can book online:
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