There’s no two ways about it, Edinburgh is a book lover’s paradise. From Sir Walter Scott to Irvine Welsh, this UNESCO City of Literature has been inspiring writers and readers for centuries. I’ve been living in Edinburgh for nearly five years now and there are so many different types of bookshops in Edinburgh that I’m still discovering new ones! From cozy bookstore cafes to radical indie bookshops to antiquarian books to a bookshop specializing in typewriter repair, when it comes to bookshops in Edinburgh, readers are truly spoiled for choice. Come along with me on a book lover’s tour of Edinburgh. We’ll stop at all my favorite bookshops in Edinburgh and I’ll spill the tea on all the best events for book lovers that cannot be missed! I’ll also share a cozy restaurant or cafe in each neighborhood where you can kick back with your books and watch the world go by.
how to use this guide
There are so many bookshops in Edinburgh that I’ve divided our journey into neighborhoods.
interactive map
I’ve created a little map of all my favorite bookshops in Edinburgh for you. Click on the pins to reveal up-to-the-minute information such as opening hours, special events, and more.
central edinburgh
This is Edinburgh’s busiest locale, featuring the charm of Old Town & Grassmarket and the hustle and bustle of Princes Street and the West End. Why not grab a book and get away from it all? Great reading places in Edinburgh include The Meadows and Princes Street Gardens. Or check out one of my suggested cafes on your tour of Edinburgh’s bookshops.
armchair books
Looking for the perfect spot to kick back and smell the old books? Then you simply must begin your tour of bookshops in Edinburgh at Armachiar Books. Billing themselves as ‘very nearly alphabetized chaos,’ the interior of this tiny shop is so packed to the gills with books you can barely turn around inside it! Situated right around the corner from Edinburgh’s Grassmarket in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, this is the perfect shop if you are a bit of a book archaeologist.
Perfect for: Used and antique book lovers.
Events: n/a
What makes it special:
- Armchair buys used books
- They also have an online shop and digital gift vouchers!
Address: 72-74 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2LE
lighthouse books
Edinburgh’s radical bookshop, Lighthouse is not simply just one of the best bookshops in Edinburgh, it’s also a community meeting space for ideas. This queer-owned and women-led bookshop bills itself as, ‘unapologetically activist, intersectional feminist, anti-racist and LGBTQ+.’ If you like your reading with a healthy dose of activism, Lighthouse is the first bookshop in Edinburgh that you need to head to!
Perfect for: Activist, LGBTQIA+, Feminist, Gender Studies, Poetry, Small Press, Political, Radical
Events: Yes! Lighthouse Books offers a lively calendar of readings. Make sure you check out Book Fringe in August and the Radical Book Fair in November.
What makes it special:
- Most live events are recorded so that you can attend from anywhere
- Lighthouse also hosts several book clubs
- Lighthouse has a safer spaces policy
- Lighthouse is committed to accessibility
address: 43-45 W Nicolson St, Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9DB, United Kingdom
transreal fiction
Located on Edinburgh’s historic Candlemaker Row, Transreal is the only bookshop in Edinburgh that is completely dedicated to selling science fiction, speculative fiction and fantasy books. According to the owner, the shop gets its name from a term that author Rudy Rucker uses to describe his fiction.
Perfect for: sci-fi, speculative fiction, and fantasy.
Events: n/a
What makes it special:
- Transreal offers online mail order service through Hive
- They also offer a brief synopsis of every new title on their website!
- They are happy for sci-fi authors to stop in to sign books and chat
Address: 46 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE
Stop for coffee on your tour of bookshops in edinburgh:
TJ Wall’s Coffee Shop: This coffee shop just around the corner from Edinburgh University sports a vintage academia vibe and offers coffee, light bites, and brunch.
Address: Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QN
the edinburgh bookshop
One of the most well-respected independent bookshops in Edinburgh, the Guardian calls The Edinburgh Bookshop, ‘The kind of bookshop we’d all love to have in our neighborhood.’ Offering an impressive roster of readings, book clubs, and book events, The Edinburgh Bookshop simply must be on your roster if you’re a reader in Edinburgh.
Perfect for: General fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, picture books
Events: Yes! The Edinburgh Bookshop hosts a fantastic roster of events.
What makes it special:
- Book clubs for adults, teens, and kids
- Online shop stocking signed copies of many hot titles!
- Click and collect your books within 48 hours.
address: 219 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DH
Waterstone’s west end
This distinguished British bookseller is located right in the heart of Edinburgh on Princes’ Street in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Stocking an impressive variety of contemporary fiction, classics, books games, and more, Waterstone’s is a great place to grab a book and curl up with a coffee in their cafe.
Perfect for: General Fiction, Classics, children’s books. YA, stationary, gifts, games
Events: Yes! Waterstones offers readings, book launches, and other events with international authors
What makes it special:
- The cafe has the best view of Edinburgh
- Dedicated Scottish literature department
Address: 128 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 4AD, United Kingdom
tills bookshop
With two Edinburgh locations in Portabello and Newington, Tills offers a variety of used and rare books. Their collection of rare books is especially impressive, including first editions by literary giants like Truman Capote, Tolkien, and Virgina Wolf. If you’re a collector with a penchant for rare and beautiful volumes, Tills is a must-visit on your tour of Edinburgh bookshops.
Perfect for: Used and antique books, coffee lovers
Events: Yes!
What makes it special:
- Signed first edition and rare books
- Gift cards
- Tills wants to buy your rare books!
Address: 1 Hope Park Cres, Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9NA / 167-171 Portabello High Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9NA
john kay’s bookshop
Located on colorful Victoria Street, John Kay’s Bookshop is one of the most beautiful and frequently photographed bookshops in all of Edinburgh. With its sage green facade and stunningly old-fashioned window displays, it’s easy to see why. Those who take a peek inside will be rewarded with a selection of books, unusual artworks, and a very friendly staff.
Perfect for: used book lovers, collectors, gifts, postcards
Events: n/a
What makes it special:
- Stunning new hardcover editions of classics
- Illustrated editions
- Artistic gifts
Address: 8 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HG, United Kingdom
andrew pringle bookshop
A proud member of Scotland’s Antiquarian Bookseller’s Association, Andrew Pringle has been an Edinburgh institution for twenty years. Specializing in unusual niches such as Scottish Literature, Military and Heraldry (what even is that?) Andrew Pringle is your go-to bookshop in Edinburgh if you want to talk rare books with an expert!
Perfect for: antique book buffs, history, literature, fine bindings
Events: Andrew Pringle exhibits at a number of book fairs throughout the year.
What makes it special:
- They offer workshops on special interests such as bookbinding, collecting Medieval manuscripts, and bookbinding
- You can browse their catalog online
Address: 68 West Port, Edinburgh
stop for coffee
The Milkman: Trendy boutique-style coffee house on Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street.
Address: 7 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1BP
forbidden planet bookshop
Forbidden Planet bills itself as the world’s largest, and best-known comic, science fiction, fantasy, and cult entertainment retailer! With its convenient central location on South Bridge, this is the perfect place to stop in on your tour of bookshops in Edinburgh if you want to add to your collection of comic books, graphic novels, or other memorabilia.
Perfect for: graphic novels, comic books, merchandise, character figures, toys
Events: Yes!
What makes it special:
- A full calendar of daily and weekly new comic book releases
- Order from their full catalog online
- Your purchases at Forbidden Planet support a variety of charities within the UK
Address: 40-41 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1LL, United Kingdom
blackwell’s bookshop
Another British book institution on South Bridge, Blackwell’s offers a wide variety of books games, and gifts, including rare and signed books.
Perfect for: general fiction, bestsellers, nonfiction, games, gifts
Events: yes!
What makes it special:
- Order from their signed book selections online
- Free reserve & collect in bookshops
Address: 53-62 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1YS, United Kingdom
stop for coffee on your tour of bookshops in edinburgh
Black Medicine Coffee Co.: an independent coffee roaster with a funky interior that’s great for reading or working.
Address: 2 Nicolson St, Edinburgh EH8 9DH
Stockbridge
This quiet, leafy neighborhood is home to several of the most beloved bookshops in Edinburgh. Only a 15-minute walk from central Edinburgh, book lovers looking to get a break from the bustle of the city should make sure to take a stroll through Stockbridge!
golden hare books
One of the most beloved indie bookstores in Edinburgh, the award-winning Golden Hare is beautiful both inside and out. This small, thoughtfully curated shop offers titles for adults and children sold by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff.
Perfect for: Literary Fiction, Scottish Fiction, Signed additions, and picture books
Events: Golden Hare hosts a lively roster of readings featuring writers from the UK and beyond.
What makes it special:
- Post Books Reading Subscription: A parcel of books selected by Golden Hare’s booksellers and posted to your door every month!
- Artisanal Scottish Chocolate
- Distinctively designed Golden Hare branded merch including bags, badges, cards, and more.
Address: 68 St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AQ, United Kingdom
rare birds bookstore
Rare Birds is something special in my book, an Edinburgh Bookshop completely devoted to championing women readers. This cozy shop offers books by women writers and events with women’s literature at their heart. Rare Birds considers themselves more than just a bookshop, they are a literary headquarters and event space.
Perfect for: Women’s Fiction, Romance, Rom-coms, Contemporary Fiction, Literary Fiction
Events: Yes!
What makes it special:
- Although they primarily stock books written by women, Rare Birds will happily order you any book you like!
- The Rare Birds Book Club is a space where women’s writing is taken seriously but books are read with fun as priority one!
Address: 13 Raeburn Pl, Edinburgh EH4 1HU, United Kingdom
ginger and pickles bookshop
Do you have a kid in your life? Just love children’s and picture books? Stop by Ginger and Pickles. Located right across the street from Golden Hare, this thoughtfully curated children’s bookshop is a delight. I used to work in a children’s bookstore and I am impressed by the diversity of titles on offer at this tiny Edinburgh bookshop.
Perfect for: YA, Children’s, Picture books
Events: n/a
What makes it special:
- A special section for parents
- Advice on shopping for children
Address: 51 St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AH, United Kingdom
stop for coffee
Soderberg: This Scandi-chic coffee house offers drinks, fresh pastries, and light bites.
address: 3 Deanhaugh St, Edinburgh EH4 1LU
leith
This formerly rough and ready neighborhood is known as a mecca for artists and musicians, with many up-and-coming cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Leith is also home to some of the most unique bookshops in Edinburgh, many of which host regular readings and events. If you’re looking to get a taste of the literary scene in Edinburgh, pop on down to Leith to browse some beloved bookshops in Edinburgh or attend a reading or open mic!
typewronger books
If you love books and great chat, you cannot miss Typewronger. More than simply a bookshop, walking into Typewronger feels like you’re walking into your favorite local pub. Everybody knows your name and is happy to suggest you something to quench your literary thirst! Typewronger is the only bookshop in Edinburgh that specializes in the repair and refurbishment of vintage typewriters. If you stop by, the proprietor will likely offer you a cup of tea and you’ll probably be treated to vintage tunes spinning on vinyl. This friendly neighborhood bookshop is my absolute favorite place to while away a rainy afternoon in Edinburgh. I cannot recommend them enough.
Perfect for: Indie Press, Sci-fi, Fantasy, LGBTQIA+, Feminism, Occult books, Poetry, Zines
Events: Workshops, open mics, readings, etc.
What makes it special:
- Typewronger runs its own small press located in a nearby artist studio. They offer classes in printing.
- Get it gift-wrapped! Typrwronger will ship books anywhere in the world, with their signature adornments featuring a typewritten card and origami animal of your choice.
Address: 4a Haddington Pl, Edinburgh EH7 4AE, United Kingdom
mc naughton’s books
Located directly next door to Typwronger, McNaugton’s is the oldest second-hand and antiquarian bookshop in Scotland. Strolling around in McNaughton’s feels like a cheeky peak into your favorite professor’s personal library, you never know what you’re going to find!
Perfect for: Second-hand/antiquarian books
Events: n/a
What makes it special:
- Large collection featuring art and architecture, children’s books, classics, languages, law, travel and topography, and much more
- Gift cards and online browsing are available
Address: 3A, 4a Haddington Pl, Edinburgh EH7 4AE, United Kingdom
Elvis Shakespeare
Do you long to paw at vintage paperbacks and crates of records under the watchful eye of a grumpy old hipster? Yes, Elvis Shakespare is that neighborhood bookstore. The divey joint where you just may come home with an absolute treasure.
Perfect for: Used books and records
Events: n/a
What makes it special:
- Elvis Shakespeare are specialists in rare vinyl
- Over 20,000 titles in stock
- Browse online or in the shop
Address: 347 Leith Walk, Edinburgh EH6 8SD, United Kingdom
argonaut bookshop
Leith’s newest bookshop, Argonaut is an absolute treasure. Housing a robust collection of sci fi, fantasy, and horror in a friendly, light and open space, Argonaut also has a lovely cafe area which is a great spot to sit and read or work.
Perfect for: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, LGBTQIA, Graphic Novels, Horror, Local authors, Feminism, Gaming
Events: yes!
What makes it special:
- Book clubs
- Book launches and events
- Argonaut enthusiastically cultivates relationships with local authors
Address: 15-17 Leith Walk, Edinburgh EH6 8LN, United Kingdom
toppings & co
This impressive three-story building is a labyrinth for literature lovers! I adore spending an afternoon at Toppings exploring their maze of rooms, some with amazing city views and book nooks flooded with sunlight.
Perfect for: Classics, Contemporary Fiction, Literary Fiction, Young Adults & Kids, Signed Additions, Nonfiction, Art History, Nature
Events: Toppings regularly hosts readings by world-class authors.
What makes it special:
- A one-on-one consultation service for readers called Coffee With A Bookseller
- Free tea
- Cozy reading nooks throughout
Address: 2 Blenheim Pl, Edinburgh EH7 5JH, United Kingdom
stop for coffee
Kuna Cafe: This cheerful cafe offers coffee, light bites, and friendly service.
Address: 1 Elm Row, Edinburgh EH7 4AA
portabello books
While not in Leith proper, a trip to Edinburgh’s charming village by the sea is a great idea for any book lover. This independent bookshop is nestled in Edinburgh’s quaint seaside neighborhood of Portabello. Portobello Bookshop is a friendly, community-oriented bookstore in Edinburgh that offers a little bit of everything, from local writers to international bestsellers, including a robust collection for kids and teens. The staff here is friendly and approachable, making it an ideal place to browse as you explore the beauty of Portabello.
Perfect for: Classics, Contemporary Fiction, Literary Fiction, Young Adults & Kids, Local Authors, Nonfiction, Nature, signed editions
Events: Yes! Portobello Books regularly hosts readings by local writers.
What makes it special:
- Special editions of many sought-after contemporary titles, including first editions and signed by authors
- Portabello Bookshop also sells magazines, stationary, toys, gifts, and other merchandise
Address: 46 Portobello High St, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 1DA
stop for coffee
Passey’s Coffee Company: This chic cafe in the heart of Portabello offers artisanal coffee and bistro-style food in an inclusive, eclectic environment.
Address: 272 Portobello High St, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 2AT
This tour of my favorite bookshops in Edinburgh is only the beginning. I hope you use this guide to explore all the wonders that bookshops in Edinburgh have to offer. Anything to add? Let me know in the comments?
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