From coffee, classics and indie gems: Here are the places to go!
Whether you are a seasoned bibliophile or embarking on your first bookish adventure, the North-East has many shops and places to embrace you. So grab your tote bag, your travel coffee cup and pop-card to explore these novel-friendly destinations!
Barter Books
First up on our book tour we are starting with a big one. Barter Books in Alnmouth is the biggest second-hand bookshop in the whole of the UK. This converted train station has shelves upon shelves of well-loved books from old 18th century text to modern contemporary.
It has the cosiest vibe with the warm lights, reading chairs and log fires. The train inspired decor makes the place even cooler with a tiny locomotive choo-chooing around the shop ceilings. You can grab a slice of the best home-made carrot cake you have ever tried in the cafe and spend hours scanning those gorgeous shelves.
Cake Stories
Tucked away in a small nook of West Jesmond lies the quirkiest independent shop. With beautiful artwork and a lot of fairy lights, the cosy cafe should be a key respite spot on your adventure.
Famous amongst the Jesmond residents for the fabulous pastries and regular events as late night tea times and children’s story times makes it a great spot to sit down and pull out your book.
Make cake not war is its motto which is so cute and not to mention they have really cute merch that is always very tempting to buy. Also going here you will be supporting a local independent business and this cafe with be worth you time with the friendly community vibes.
The Lit and Phil Library
As soon as you step through the grand entrance you will enter book heaven! Its charm lies inside the Grade II listed building which is filled with Victorian grandeur, original reading rooms and elegant architecture.
With over 200 000 books including rare first editions and local historical documents, this traditional library is perfect for those who love the feel and smell of old tomes.
The collections span centuries and genres from literature and philosophy to scientific treaties and local history guaranteeing something for every readers tastes. If it’s still not to your taste the beauty of all the books and open architecture will change your mind!
Tynemouth Market
The Tynemouth market has many incredible things to see and try making it a fantastic experience not just for book worms but for anyone seeking a vibrant and engaging atmosphere filled with unique finds.
The market occupies the Tynemouth metro station every weekend and is filled with local sellers, stall and aromas of the best street food vendors you have ever had.
The market often has thrift book stalls that are very affordable with great selections across all genres. If you are a puppy-lover this will be your new heaven as this is the most friend paw spot int he whole of the north east.
The Bound- Forum books
The Bound doesn’t simply stock the best-seller but carefully curated titles appealing to both established and niche interests.
This sweet bookshop in whitely Bay actively promotes local authors and publishers showcasing the rich literary talent of Tyne and Wear. Both location are native to the north east so you are getting a valuable taste of the Geordie culture. (You should also grab a Greggs because that is very Toon-ish too!)
Jesmond Dene
The Dene is one of the most gorgeous places in Newcastle not far away from the city centre. With is valleys and paths lining the side of the River Ouseburn, Jesmond Dene offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
Highly recommend going for a stroll in Autumn when the leaves are orange with your headphones on with a podcast or audio book playing. The sound of the waterfalls echoing in the background is a little slice of heaven.
Even in summer taking a picnic blanket and lying down with a book under one of the trees gives you an un-matched feeling of divine.
Waterstones
Last but not least we obviously had to mention the Waterstones because it would be simply rude not to! This four-storey shop has every book you could desire not to mention is in smack-bang city centre. This shop is the top destination for bookish meet up and author events so be sure to check out their website for upcoming bookings.
The cafe has an incredible tea selection and many areas to take a seat and admire the shelves. Every Waterstones has something for all different types of readers out there.