The Best Second-Hand Bookshops in the UK

Posted on 26/03/25

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The Best Second-Hand Bookshops in the UK – Ship Worldwide with ForwardVia
Browse the 9 Best Second-Hand Bookshops in the UK
Want More Cheap Second-Hand Bookshops?
Buy from UK Second-Hand Bookshops and Ship Worldwide with ForwardVia
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The Best Second-Hand Bookshops in the UK – Ship Worldwide with ForwardVia #

There’s nothing quite like the magic of a well-loved book. While fresh pages and that unmistakable new book smell have their appeal, true book lovers know the joy of a pre-loved classic—its pages slightly yellowed, its spine gently broken, carrying the history of readers before you.

If you adore second-hand books and are on the hunt for literary treasures, you’ll love our list of the eight best second-hand bookshops in the UK. And with ForwardVia, you can have your bookish finds shipped straight to your door—wherever you are in the world!

Browse the 9 Best Second-Hand Bookshops in the UK #

1. Scrivener’s Books & Bookbinding

Located in the beautiful market town of Buxton, Derbyshire, Scrivener’s is a charming second-hand bookshop housing over 40,000 pre-loved books across five floors. Their collection is available via Abebooks, where you can browse their entire stock online.

A book-lover’s dream, Scrivener’s is a shop you could happily get lost in. If you ever get the chance to visit, it’s worth every penny of the plane ticket!

2. Potterton Books

Housed in a stunning 18th-century building in North Yorkshire, Potterton Books specializes in out-of-print and specialist titles, with over 15,000 books in stock. Whether you’re searching for architecture, design, or rare finds, you can browse their online catalogue or sign up for their newsletter to stay updated.

3. Barter Books

Situated in Alnwick, Northumberland, Barter Books is one of the most unique second-hand bookshops in the UK. With open fires, cozy armchairs, model trains, and even a café, it’s a literary haven. If you can’t visit in person, don’t worry—you can still browse their vast selection of used books, view incoming stock, or shop gifts online.

4. Oxfam Books

A household name, Oxfam is not just a charity shop but a fantastic source for affordable second-hand books. Whether you’re looking for fiction, non-fiction, or academic books, their online store is packed with hidden gems. The best part? Every purchase supports a good cause.

5. World of Books

World of Books is one of the UK’s leading second-hand book retailers. With thousands of paperbacks and hardbacks available, they champion sustainability by giving books a second life. Shopping here means saving money while supporting eco-friendly practices.

6. Awesome Books

Another champion of sustainability, Awesome Books offers a vast selection of used books, and for every book sold, they donate one to global literacy projects. With over 132 million books saved from landfill, shopping with them means making a real difference.

7. musicMagpie

Though best known for selling music, musicMagpie also has an impressive selection of second-hand books. From thrillers to children’s stories, you’ll find it all—and they even offer free shipping on all book purchases!

8. Baggins Book Bazaar

As the UK’s largest second-hand bookshop, Baggins Book Bazaar is a treasure trove for book lovers. With a vast collection covering everything from science fiction to rare annuals like The Beano and Dandy, this shop is perfect for collectors and casual readers alike.

9. FairyLoot

If you love exclusive editions and fantasy novels, FairyLoot is a must-visit. They specialize in beautifully designed books, many featuring sprayed edges, exclusive covers, and collectible items. While they primarily offer book subscription boxes, their online store frequently stocks stunning standalones.

Want More Cheap Second-Hand Bookshops? #

If you’re still searching for more second-hand books, check out these online marketplaces:

eBay UK – Find rare and vintage books at bargain prices.
Amazon UK – Discover hidden bookish gems available only in the UK.
Monster Books – A massive selection of second-hand and rare books.

Buy from UK Second-Hand Bookshops and Ship Worldwide with ForwardVia #

Love second-hand books but live outside the UK? Many of these shops don’t ship internationally—but ForwardVia can help.

With our parcel forwarding service, you can shop from any UK store, have your books delivered to our UK address, and we’ll ship them straight to your door, no matter where you are in the world.

📦 Sign up for FREE today and take advantage of a reliable, cost-effective UK parcel forwarding service.

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