12 Secondhand Bookshops in London Worth Getting Lost In
If you love the smell of old pages, the thrill of a hidden gem, and the quiet magic of a well-loved story, you’re in the right place.
London is full of second-hand bookshops with real character; the kind of places where you lose an hour (or three) flipping through paperbacks, vintage editions, and rare finds.
Whether you’re after a forgotten classic, building a home library, or just hoping a certain book finds you, there’s a spot in the city waiting to welcome you in.
Here are some of our favourite second-hand bookshops in London, each with its own charm, quirks, and shelves full of stories.
12 Of The Best Second-Hand Bookshops In London
Address: 66 The Brunswick off, Marchmont St, London WC1N 1AE
Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, Skoob Books is a true gem of London’s literary scene, offering an unparalleled selection of second-hand books.
This haven for book lovers is a must-visit destination that caters to a wide range of interests, with a vast collection of academic and scholarly titles that have made it a firm favourite among students, academics, and researchers alike.
Additionally, Skoob Books boasts an impressive collection of rare books, making it a paradise for collectors.
Skoob Books offers more than just recycled knowledge – they also rent out books for set dressing in films, TV, theatre, installations and private homes.
They have experience in a diverse range of projects and provide expert consultancy and supply for all artistic book hires.
The company prides itself on carefully hand-picking the most appropriate books for each specification and ensuring everything fits the scene, project or residence.
The impressive list of clients they have worked with includes Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, and many more.
Skoob Books is open Monday to Saturday from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm and Sunday from 10.30 am to 6.00 pm.
The shop is just a stone’s throw away from Russell Square tube station.
Address: 56 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0QA
Nestled on the famous Charing Cross Road, Any Amount of Books is a treasure trove of second-hand books that has been capturing the hearts of book lovers for over two decades.
Considered one of the best places for second-hand bookshops in London, this charming bookstore is a mecca for bibliophiles of all stripes.
From £1.00 bargains to rare collectors’ gems, its extensive collection of reasonably-priced used books, from fiction and non-fiction to rare and out-of-print titles, will satisfy anyone’s reading appetite.
Any Amount of Books is a true paradise for collectors.
Their vast collection of first editions and signed copies is unparalleled, making it a must-visit destination for those searching for rare and unique titles.
The shop is held in high regard by book enthusiasts and notably acquired the library of Angela Carter and Norman Douglas.
The shop is open Monday to Saturday from 11.30 am to 7.30 pm and Sunday from 11.30 am to 6.30 pm, providing ample opportunities to visit during lunch breaks or after work.
Conveniently located near several tube stations, the closest is Leicester Square, which is only a short walk away.
Other nearby stations include Covent Garden, Tottenham Court Road, and Charing Cross.
Address: Waterloo Bridge, London SE1 8TX
Located under the iconic Waterloo Bridge, the Southbank Book Market is a lively and exceptional second-hand book market that has become a beloved destination for book lovers and visitors to London alike.
With an impressive selection of second-hand books, prints, and maps, this vibrant market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique shopping experience.
The Southbank Book Market is a true hidden gem that offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re searching for fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, rare books or first editions, you’ll find it here.
The market also boasts an extensive collection of prints and maps, including vintage and antique pieces.
Situated beneath the Waterloo Bridge, the market’s location is perfect, providing shelter from the elements while allowing for an open-air shopping experience.
The market’s vendors are friendly and welcoming, always happy to engage with visitors and offer recommendations.
With daily opening hours from 10.00 am to 7.00 pm (Monday to Saturday) and 11.00 am to 7.00 pm on Sunday, the Southbank Centre Book Market is an ideal place to visit during a day out in London.
It’s located near Waterloo Station and bus stops, making it easily accessible via public transport.
Address: Bloomsbury Plaza, 12 Bloomsbury St, London WC1B 3QA
Oxfam Bookshops is a beloved chain of second-hand bookstores scattered throughout London, each with its own distinct selection of books and unique atmosphere.
Along with their impressive collection of used books, these shops are known for their commitment to social and environmental causes, making them a favourite among those looking to shop for a cause.
For those on a budget, Oxfam Bookshops is a dream come true.
They offer an extensive selection of second-hand books at affordable prices, spanning a wide variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books.
Collectors should also know that each shop has a special section dedicated to rare and collectable books.
Oxfam Bloomsbury is Oxfam’s flagship bookshop in the very heart of London.
The shop is barely a minute away from the British Museum and five minutes from Soho and, in addition to the usual genres, has a large specialist art section.
Sustainability is also at the heart of Oxfam Bookshops’ ethos.
They focus on reducing waste and use recycled and sustainable materials in their shops whenever possible.
With a portion of their profits donated to charity, each purchase made at an Oxfam Bookshop is a step towards positive social and environmental change.
While opening hours may vary depending on the location, many Oxfam Bookshop branches are open seven days a week, providing ample opportunities for visitors to browse their collection of used books at a time that suits them.
Address: 84 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4QW
Nestled in the elegant Marylebone neighbourhood and alleged to be the first custom-built bookshop in the world, Daunt Books is a true icon among London’s second-hand bookshops.
Boasting a stunning interior, this charming bookstore is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and memorable book-hunting experience.
The store’s long gallery of travel books is especially noteworthy, lending the shop a unique character that will enchant visitors.
Designed by architect Charles Voysey, Daunt Books’ distinctive Edwardian architecture is a major draw for architecture enthusiasts.
But it’s not just the store’s aesthetic that’s impressive. as its collection of second-hand books is equally outstanding.
This shop has everything from hard-to-find titles to rare and signed editions, covering a range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and travel literature.
The shop also boasts a dedicated section for children’s books, making it an ideal destination for families.
Daunt Books is open Monday to Saturday from 09.00 am to 7:30 pm and Sunday from 11.00 am to 6.00 pm.
The shop is easily accessible by public transport, with the Marylebone tube station and bus stops nearby.
Address: 13 Blenheim Crescent, London W11 2EE
Located in the trendy Notting Hill neighbourhood, The Notting Hill Bookshop is a delightful second-hand bookshop that has won the hearts of both locals and tourists.
Its inviting atmosphere and impressive selection of used books make it a go-to destination for book lovers.
The bookshop boasts an impressive collection of second-hand books, including rare and out-of-print titles.
Collectors will be pleased to find a great selection of first editions and signed copies.
One of the most distinctive features of The Notting Hill Bookshop is its connection to popular culture.
The shop was featured in the famous movie ‘Notting Hill’ starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, turning it into a must-visit attraction for tourists.
Visitors can snap a photo outside the shop and discover its extensive collection of used books.
The bookshop is open seven days a week from 09.00 am to 7.00 pm.
You can find it on Blenheim Crescent, just a short walk from Notting Hill Gate tube station.
Address: 82 Marchmont St, London WC1N 1AG
Judd Books is a beloved second-hand bookshop in Bloomsbury, London’s literary hub.
Boasting a vast collection of used books, including many rare and out-of-print titles, it is a treasure trove for book enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Judd Books has something for everyone, with an extensive selection of second-hand books covering various genres.
The store also has a special section dedicated to rare and collectable titles, sure to satisfy any book connoisseur.
Beyond its impressive collection, Judd Books is a must-visit for those interested in the literary history of Bloomsbury.
The neighbourhood has been home to many celebrated writers and thinkers, making it a hub of inspiration and creativity.
Visitors to Judd Books can immerse themselves in this literary legacy and discover their own inspiration.
Judd Books welcomes book lovers seven days a week, with opening hours from 11.00 am to 7.00 pm on weekdays and 12.00 pm to 6.00 pm on Sundays.
The store is conveniently located on Marchmont Street, just a short stroll from Russell Square station.
Address: 2 Sackville Street, Piccadilly, London, W1S 3DP
Henry Sotheran’s is a prestigious second-hand bookshop, one of London’s oldest, with a rich history dating back to 1761.
It boasts an unparalleled collection of second-hand books, comprising many rare and collectable titles that will captivate bibliophiles and collectors alike.
But the shop’s unique offering goes beyond books.
Henry Sotheran’s collection of antique prints and maps is one of the standout features that has made it a popular destination for history and art enthusiasts.
The shop is home to an impressive collection of exquisite, uncommon, and significant English literature books spanning from the 17th to the 19th century.
Sotheran’s collection boasts exceptional Classics, Gothic and Romantic Literature, and a remarkable selection of translated works.
Additionally, they have sub-sections dedicated to Poetry, early Detective Fiction, including renowned authors such as Wilkie Collins and Arthur Conan Doyle, Philosophy, and Private Press, emphasising celebrated publishers such as Golden Cockerel, Whittington, Nonesuch, and Kelmscott.
Within the store, you can also browse through an extensive collection of rare and unusual maps and prints dating back to the 16th century, showcasing various cities worldwide.
Henry Sotheran’s opening hours are Monday to Friday from 09.30 am to 11.00 am (appointment only) and 11.00 am to 18.00 for general opening.
The bookshop is located on Sackville Street, just a stone’s throw away from Piccadilly Circus station.
Address: 439 Coldharbour Lane, London SW9 8LN
Book Mongers is a beloved second-hand bookstore in the vibrant neighbourhood of London’s Brixton.
Tucked away on Coldharbour Lane, this bookstore has been a go-to destination for book lovers in the area for years.
At first glance, it is a bit chaotic, with piles of used books stacked beside crammed shelves.
However, it soon becomes apparent that the owners know their books and where to find what you want.
Their fiction shelves can range from Annie Proulx to William Gaddis, Dennis Cooper to Pablo Neruda. It’s a true delight for the Cult Fiction fan.
The warm and inviting atmosphere of Book Mongers is immediately evident upon entering the store.
The shelves are filled with an impressive collection of second-hand books covering various genres, from classics to contemporary fiction, history to philosophy.
One of the standout features of this bookstore is its commitment to sustainability.
In addition to selling second-hand books, Book Mongers also accepts donations of gently used books, ensuring that books continue to be enjoyed rather than discarded.
This eco-conscious approach has earned the store a loyal following among environmentally-conscious book lovers.
An interesting fact about Book Mongers is that it used to be a Jamaican takeaway restaurant before being converted into a bookstore.
The owners, avid book lovers, saw an opportunity to create a space for their community to share their love of literature.
They transformed the building into the charming bookstore it is today.
The shop’s history as a former restaurant is reflected in its unique decor, which includes a bright mural of Jamaican scenery on one of the walls.
Book Mongers is open from Monday to Saturday from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm and on Sundays from 11 am to 5.00 pm.
It’s conveniently located on Coldharbour Lane in Brixton, just a short walk from the underground station, making it easily accessible to visitors.
Address: 76 Stroud Green Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 3EN
New Beacon Books is a historic independent bookstore located in the vibrant neighbourhood of London’s Finsbury Park.
Founded in 1966, the shop has been a cornerstone of Black British and Caribbean literature for over 50 years, making it a must-visit destination for book lovers and history buffs alike.
The bookstore’s warm and welcoming atmosphere is immediately evident upon entering.
The shelves are lined with a wide selection of books, particularly by Black British and Caribbean authors.
The store’s commitment to promoting diverse voices is evident in its selection of books and regular author events and talks.
New Beacon Books is also notable for its unique place in the history of the Black British community.
During the 1970s and 1980s, the bookstore played a key role in the Black British civil rights movement, hosting meetings and events for various Black British organisations.
The shop was also a hub for the Pan-African movement, with notable figures such as Angela Davis and Walter Rodney having visited the store.
Today, New Beacon Books continues to be a vibrant cultural hub in Finsbury Park.
Its commitment to promoting diverse voices and celebrating Black British and Caribbean culture has earned it a loyal local and international following.
New Beacon Books is open from Thursday to Saturday from 12.00 am to 6.00 pm and Sundays from 12.00 pm to 5.00 pm.
It’s conveniently located on Stroud Green Road in Finsbury Park, just a short walk from Finsbury Park underground station, making it easily accessible to visitors from all over London.
Address: 121 High Rd, London N2 8AG
Black Gull Books is a beloved independent bookstore in the charming neighbourhood of East Finchley in London.
With its cosy and inviting atmosphere and an impressive selection of books, this shop has been a go-to destination for book lovers in the area for years.
The shelves of Black Gull Books are filled with an eclectic collection of second-hand books covering a wide range of genres, from classic literature to contemporary fiction, art and photography, history and politics, and much more.
Whether you’re looking for a rare collectable or just browsing for something new, the store’s extensive collection is sure to have something to pique your interest.
One of the standout features of Black Gull Books is its dedication to quality.
All the books in the store are carefully selected by the knowledgeable staff, ensuring only the best books make it onto the shelves.
The store also prides itself on its affordable prices, making it an accessible destination for book lovers of all budgets.
The store’s location on the High Road in East Finchley provides a convenient and picturesque backdrop for browsing the shelves.
The shop’s cosy and intimate atmosphere, with wooden shelves and comfortable seating, creates the perfect environment for curling up with a good book.
Black Gull Books has been featured in various publications and websites as one of the best independent bookshops in London, including Time Out London, The Guardian, and Culture Trip.
Its dedication to quality and affordability has earned it a loyal following among book lovers, making it a beloved institution in the East Finchley community.
Black Gull Books is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm and Sundays from 11.00 pm to 5.30 pm.
It’s located on the High Road in East Finchley, just a short walk from the underground station.
Address: 38 Harmood Street, London NW1 8DP
Walden Books is a charming independent bookstore in London’s Camden Town.
Established in 1979 by David Tobin, they have been part of Camden’s lively independent retail scene for over 40 years.
With its cosy and inviting atmosphere and a carefully curated selection of books, this shop has been a beloved destination for book lovers, including famous locals, in the area for years.
The shelves of Walden Books are lined with a wide selection of second-hand books covering a variety of genres, including classic and contemporary literature, art and photography, music, history, and much more.
Whether you’re a fiction, non-fiction, or poetry fan, there’s always something to discover at Walden Books.
One of the standout features of Walden Books is its focus on quality over quantity.
The store’s small but carefully curated selection of books ensures that each piece is a true gem worth discovering.
Walden Books is part of a Victorian terrace in a quiet, leafy residential street.
A magnificent Wisteria vine graces the shop front. (A reminder of Walden, and Thoreau’s life in the woods, after whom they are named.)
The store’s location on Harmood Street, just off the bustling high street of Camden Town and five minutes from Camden Market, provides a peaceful and picturesque setting for browsing the shelves.
The shop’s cosy and intimate atmosphere, with wooden shelves and comfortable seating, creates the perfect environment for escaping into a good book.
Walden Books is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10.30 am to 18.30, just a short walk from Camden Town underground station.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through the best second-hand bookshops in London.
Whether you’re a book enthusiast or a collector, these shops offer a unique experience and a chance to find hidden literary gems.
So why not take a break from the digital world and discover the joy of browsing through physical books?
Add to your list of things to do the next time you’re in London to explore the magic of the written word by visiting one (or all!) of these bookshops.