Where can one find these rare, hidden books in London?

For generations, London has been a haven for bibliophiles: rich in literary history and with numerous bookshops selling everything from modern blockbusters to antiquarian gems. For anyone who loves the rare and out-of-the-way book, the capital has an array of stores in which a few gems can be unearthed. From seasoned collector to amateur enthusiast, London’s literary landscape has something to offer.

 

Sotheran’s

Dating back to 1761, Sotheran’s is one of the oldest antiquarian bookshops in the world and remains a cornerstone of London’s rare book scene. Located in Mayfair, this store specialises in fine bindings, first editions, and illustrated works, with its extensive collection covering literature, history, and travel. If one is on the lookout for a rare edition of Dickens or an illustrated one of Shakespeare, Sotheran’s should be a must-visit store for serious collectors.

Sotheran's

 

Maggs Bros. Ltd

In the heart of Bedford Square, Maggs Bros. has traded in rare books and manuscripts since the formation of the company in 1853. The store has a great choice of antiquarian books available, covering many subjects and including early printed books, fine bindings, and literary archives. With its prestigious clientele and highly authoritative expertise, Maggs Bros. is likely to be the perfect destination for historical documents and first editions.

 

Cecil Court

Cecil Court is a charming pedestrian street lined with independent bookshops specializing in rare and antiquarian books. Known as “Booksellers’ Row,” this hidden gem is located just off Charing Cross Road and is home to many specialist dealers, including Marchpane, which specializes in children’s literature, and Peter Ellis, which offers fine first editions of modern literature. Cecil Court is a must-visit for anyone who wants to browse the rarest of titles in an atmospheric setting.

 

Quinto Bookshop

For the more eclectic mix, one should rush to Quinto Bookshop on Charing Cross Road for a carefully curated selection of second-hand and rare books across most genres. From classic literature to esoteric non-fiction, the shop is known for reasonable prices and knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re in search of an out-of-print title or some obscure academic work, Quinto is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

The London Review Bookshop

Located in Bloomsbury, the London Review Bookshop is primarily known for its contemporary collection but does have rare and out-of-print editions from time to time. The stock is very carefully selected, and with close ties to the London Review of Books, the standard is always very high. It also often hosts events such as author events and discussions, further making it a cultural hub for book lovers.

Jarndyce Antiquarian Booksellers

Specializing in the 18th and 19th century but particularly strong on Dickens and Victoriana, it has a stellar stock of rare books, pamphlets, and ephemera facing the British Museum. As befits a shop just across from the British Museum, Jarndyce’s is well known for highly catalogued collections, an approach appealing most to scholars. 7. Any Amount of Books

If you like the thrill of the hunt, Any Amount of Books on Charing Cross Road is the place to go. With its shelves groaning under the weight of rare, second-hand, and collectible books, the shop offers an eclectic mix that includes everything from modern first editions to rare academic texts. Frequent visits can often yield unexpected finds at reasonable prices.

Peter Harrington

Located in the heart of Chelsea, Peter Harrington is a well-established antiquarian bookseller that boasts a prestigious selection of rare and fine books. Its stock comprises rare first editions, signed copies, and handsomely bound volumes in a wide array of subjects. Particular areas of excellence include modern first editions and historical documents.

Peter Harrington

 

 

Word on the Water

For something quite different, Word on the Water is a floating bookshop on Regent’s Canal that sells a great mixture of second-hand and rare books in the most picturesque of settings. This quaint canal boat offers a delightfully quirky and relaxed browsing experience, often with live music and literary events.

Word on the Water

 

Oxfam Books and Music

While not strictly rare book specialists, the network of Oxfam bookshops across London frequently throws up surprises. Outposts in Bloomsbury and Marylebone are especially good for uncovering more unusual items at paltry prices, thus ideal for collectors on shoestring budgets.

 

Online Options

In addition to physical stores, many of London’s rare book sellers maintain an online presence, where collectors are able to access and purchase rare titles from the comfort of their homes. Sites such as AbeBooks and Biblio also open access to thousands of rare book listings from London’s top dealers, their use of gifs adding an extra dimension to the book-hunting experience.

 

Conclusion

From the rare, hidden treasures hidden in Cecil Court to the depths of antiquity at Sotheran’s and the ecclesiastical shelves of Word on the Water, this city has so much to give to all of its visitors for all tastes and budgets. Be it your favorite first edition, a classic with an artistic leather binding, or some obscure scholastic tombe, this is London for you-literary London.

 

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