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Used book stores London

Does anyone have a favorite used book store in London or to the south of London? Staying close to Eastbourne and Brighton. Will be driving up to Bath. Thanks

Posted by
16278 posts

Were you planning to stop in London or North London because if you are staying on the south coast near Eastbourne and Brighton, and going to Bath, there is no reason to go into London unless you wanted to. The best routing takes you around London, not through it.

Charing Cross Road in London used to have many used book stores but I haven't looked in a few years.

When I'm in the area, I usually stop by at Foyle's on Charing Cross Rd. Though not really a used book dealer. it's just so much fun meandering the different levels and alcoves.

Posted by
29 posts

Thanks Frank. This is my first time to the Uk so I will definitely be doing the touristy things in London.

Posted by
4684 posts

Used bookstores in London are declining due to high rents and the usual web competition. There are still a few around Charing Cross Road and Bloomsbury but not as many as there were.

Posted by
3580 posts

Libraries in Britain often have a rack of used books for sale--very inexpensive. I like to use the free internet in libraries, then buy a used book for my next read, and to make a contribution to the library. Some of the libraries are open Sundays.

Posted by
345 posts

Most charity shops have shelves of books, and Oxfam has book only stores.

Posted by
964 posts

Yes, as already suggested here, charity shops are a great source of used books. Some of the names to look for are Oxfam, Mind, PDSA, Red Cross, Sue Ryder, Age Concern, Help the Aged and Salvation Army. There are more.

These days charity shops in the UK are improving their image and sometimes you might not realise it is a charity shop from the nice window display, so that's why I've listed the names I can think of.

Posted by
349 posts

very near leicester Sq is Cecil court with many used book stores each has a specialty nice spot to see