Camden, Hackney, and Richmond upon Thames boast the most independent book shops according to new research.
London is full of giant book retailers – Waterstones and W.H Smith spring to mind, but did you know the city is also bursting with independent book shops?
In the run-up to World Book Day, Barratt London has revealed which London boroughs have the most independent book shops and are a must-visit for book lovers. Independent retailers have taken a hit since COVID-19 and now with the cost-of-living crisis that shows no signs of slowing down. Now more than ever, the message of shopping local needs to be spread.
Which London borough takes the crown for the most independent book shops?
In total, the study found 131 independent book shops in the city. When shopping at an independent you’re not only getting a personal experience, but you can also usually find some unique items.
Camden takes the crown for the top independent book hotspot with 22 shops in total. Some mentions include Skoob Books, Primrose Hill Books, Karnac Books, Owl Bookshop and Judd Books. Camden Market is home to three shops in the line-up which are Boom Cat Books, Secondhand Books and Japan Craft.
Hackney is in second place with 12 independent book shops. Some mentions include Housman’s Bookshop Ltd, Hoxton Books, Pages of Hackney and Artworlds Bookshop Limited.
Richmond upon Thames follows in third with 10 independent book businesses. You can find female-owned Parade’s End, The Open Book, Hewson Books and Barnes Bookshop in the East London borough.
