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Exploring the bookshops in Lewes, East Sussex…
In this post we will explore the bookshops in Lewes, the historic market town best known for its world-famous bonfire night and castle, and as a popular day-trip destination from two major UK cities; London and Brighton.
Those looking for an escape from city life can enjoy Lewes’ array of independent shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs alongside scenic walks in the surrounding South Downs National Park. Additionally, Lewes is home to a surprising number of bookshops (for such a small town!) that literary travellers can explore. Keep reading to discover the charming bookshops on offer in Lewes, East Sussex.
The Fifteenth Century Bookshop
At one end of Lewes high street sits The Fifteenth Century Bookshop, named after the building in which it is housed. This second-hand bookshop is one of the oldest in the UK, stacked with rare and collectable books, with a particular focus on children’s literature. The exterior is a true sight to behold for history lovers, with medieval half-timbered architecture and a delightfully crooked appearance. This bookshop is only open on weekends, but is well-worth the visit, especially if you’re looking for first editions or old childhood favourites.
Address: 99-100 High St, Lewes BN7 1XH
Opening hours: Saturday, 11am -5pm and Sunday, 12pm – 5pm
Bow Windows Bookshop
Since 1964, the Bow Windows Bookshop in Lewes has been home to a generous amount of rare and antiquarian books. This eye-catching and perfectly curated bright-red bookstore also offers a selection of signed works and modern-first editions, perfect for the more serious collector. With books covering art, history, travel and poetry, there’s something for everyone inside!
Address: 175 High St, Lewes BN7 1YE
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Website: https://www.bowwindows.com/
Boon Books
Boon Books is the most well-rounded of all the independent bookshops in Lewes – stocking brand new, affordable books of every genre. It is a family run business providing overstocked (excess) books at a discounted price, in line with their mission to make reading as accessible as possible. Due to the bookshops business model, you won’t find new releases here but you will find plenty of fiction, non-fiction and children’s titles. Additionally, Boon Books sells audiobooks, games and stationery.
Address: 18 High St, Lewes BN7 2LN
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am – 5pm Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Website: https://boonbooksbargains.wordpress.com/
Waterstones
There are over 300 Waterstones bookshops in the UK, one of which is located in the heart of Lewes. This is the only chain bookstore in the town – with books, gifts and a café all spread across multiple spacious rooms. Despite its large size. this particular Waterstones branch manages to retain a cosy, warm and welcoming atmosphere. Covering genres such as contemporary fiction, fantasy, romance and much more, Waterstones has something for every book lover.
Address: 220-221 High St, Lewes BN7 2AF
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am – 5.30pm Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Website: https://www.waterstones.com/bookshops/lewes
Bag of Books
Bag of Books is a pretty, small and quaint children’s bookshop positioned at the very end of Lewes. Inside, you will find brand new books displayed for every age range with comfortable seating and cushions provided. The exterior of the bookshop, with its colourful bunting and cottage-style windows, only adds to the charm of the place. Additionally, Bag of Books is often praised for its reasonable prices and helpful, knowledgeable staff.
Address: 1 South St, Lewes BN7 2BT
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5.30pm
Website: https://bags-of-books.co.uk/
