Ah, Edinburgh, the city of literary giants and the birthplace of Harry Potter. As the very first city to be designated a UNESCO City of Literature and home to the renowned Edinburgh International Book Festival, it comes as no surprise that this enchanting Scottish capital boasts some extraordinary bookshops. Among my favorites is the unparalleled Armchair Books, a second-hand haven that is nothing short of magical. With its labyrinthine layout, overflowing bookshelves, and that familiar scent of ink and paper, Armchair Books is an absolute must-visit for any bookworm wandering through Edinburgh.
Discovering Armchair Books
Located in Edinburgh’s West Port, an ancient hub for booksellers, Armchair Books welcomes visitors to an otherworldly realm of “alphabetised chaos.” Its eclectic collection of pre-loved books promises endless exploration and delightful surprises. As you wander through the stacks, prepare for an experience that is truly spellbinding. The shop itself exudes a touch of magic, with books occasionally taking flight, reminding you that you have entered a realm where stories come alive.
What Books are Sold At Armchair Books?
Armchair Books spans two historic buildings, each offering its own unique wonders. Enter through 72 West Port, where you’ll encounter their “very nearly alphabetized chaos.” Here, you’ll discover an impressive selection of second-hand fiction, philosophy, poetry, history, science fiction, and so much more. As you venture towards 74 West Port, prepare to lose yourself in the world of antiquarian books and an extensive collection of non-fiction titles. When I visited back in March of 2023, I spent so long in here and the book that called to me the most came from the antiquarian section. A 1928 (I believe) copy of Celtic Myths and Legends. I’m not going to lie, I’m too scared to read it but it takes pride of place on my bookshelf.
Why Armchair Books is so Magical
Armchair Books casts an irresistible spell, instantly making bibliophiles feel at home. Rows upon rows of aged books line the shelves, while the scent of ink and time creates an atmosphere of unparalleled coziness. Plush patterned rugs adorn the creaking floorboards, inviting you to wander through the aisles as if exploring a private library collection. With an array of genres to peruse, you could easily lose yourself for hours amidst their abundant book treasures. Vintage hardbacks are particularly abundant, satisfying the desires of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Beyond its allure for book lovers, Armchair Books has become an Instagram sensation, captivating photographers with its endless maze of literary wonders. Potterheads, in particular, will relish the feeling of stepping into the Hogwarts Library as they immerse themselves in the old, dusty tomes.
Directions and Opening Times
Armchair Books is conveniently located near Grassmarket in the historic West Port area, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Candlemaker Row, or Victoria Street. And the best part? Armchair Books is open every day of the week! Opening times are typically Sunday to Thursday from 12.30 pm to 5.30 pm and Friday to Saturday from 10 am to 6.30 pm. Although be sure to keep up to date with their Twitter account as announcements regarding opening times are usually made there.
Visiting Armchair Books
To make the most of your visit to Armchair Books, here are a few insider tips:
- Weekends can get quite busy, so consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and fully indulge in the unique atmosphere.
- Embrace the “very nearly alphabetized chaos” of the store, as the staff have created a system that makes finding books surprisingly easy. However, don’t hesitate to seek their guidance if you’re searching for something specific.
- Please note that as an old building, certain areas may not be accessible to all. If you require assistance, reach out to the shop in advance, and they will be more than happy to accommodate your needs.
- Armchair Books welcomes photography enthusiasts with open arms. Capture the mesmerizing beauty of the bookshop, but aim for off-peak times for a quieter experience. Remember to tag them on Instagram at @armchairbooksedinburgh when you share your snapshots.
