A land of endless artistic inspiration with creativity running through its veins, it’s no surprise that Cornwall is host to a wonderful collection of bookshops. With quirky bookshop-come-cafés, traditional book stores you can spend hours getting lost in, and even a bookshop in a pub, you’re never far from somewhere inviting to discover your next pageturner.
Add to that the balmy beaches, cosy cafés, and quiet corners of this coastal county which provide plenty of places to settle down with your nose between the pages, and you’ll soon realise that Cornwall is a dream destination for book lovers.
Shrew Books, Fowey
Best for: Cornish authors and nature writing
4 South Street, Fowey PL23 1AR
A picturesque town overflowing with history, Fowey’s cobbled streets date back to medieval times. Jam-packed with boutique stores and excellent restaurants, it’s also somewhat of a literary haven. It’s especially well-known for its Festival of Art & Literature which honours notable authors, like Daphne du Maurier and Rosamund Pilcher who were inspired by the area. Open all year, Shrew Books has a broad selection of books to choose from, including the latest releases, and spotlights local writers and nature writing. Once you’ve taken your pick, head to the harbour or Readymoney Cove for some quiet reading. Don’t forget to jump on one of the guided boat tours to learn more about the area and all that’s inspired previous writers.
St Ives Bookseller, St Ives
Best for: Cutest bookshop
2 Fore Street, St Ives TR26 1AB
St Ives harbour has been capturing imaginations for hundreds of years with its unique light and beautiful harbour overlooked by fisherman’s cottages. Just moments from the waterfront, St Ives Bookseller is one of Britain’s smallest bookshops and a must-visit in the town. Despite its tiny appearance, it has a surprising number of titles, including timeless classics, new releases, and a great children’s fiction section. Choose a copy of your favourite read before turning the pages on one of the sandy beaches, such as Porthmeor, Porthminster or Porthgwidden. You can also stretch your legs on a local walk, before returning to your cottage to read in total comfort.
Wadebridge Bookshop, Wadebridge
Best for: Cornish heritage books
43 Molesworth Street, Wadebridge PL27 7DR
Wadebridge boasts the Camel Trail, the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show, a fab street food venue, and a town centre full of independent boutiques and galleries. It was also once voted as the home of the best independent bookshop in Cornwall. Inspiring all generations of readers, Wadebridge Bookshop is full to the brim with old and new titles, including a great offering for children. They also have a great second-hand section, plenty of titles on the heritage of the South West, and even books written in the Cornish language. Pick up some must-reads and visit one of the welcoming cafés on the high street for a spot of page-turning and people-watching with a mug of your favourite brew.
Falmouth Bookseller, Falmouth
Best for: Events and book signings
21 Church Street, Falmouth TR11 3EG
Home to one of the UK’s leading arts universities, Falmouth town is as much a creative haven as it is a centre for maritime history. As you wander through its streets, you’ll discover a fantastic range of things to see and do, including independent restaurants, gift shops, and art galleries. In the centre of the high street is Falmouth Bookseller, sister shop to St Ives Bookseller. Their book offering is extensive and the staff are incredibly helpful if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. There’s also an onsite café and a co-working space upstairs. Keep an eye out for events as there are often book signings and other interesting goings-on. Afterwards make your way to one of the waterfront pubs, or take a short walk to Gyllyngvase beach, where you can enjoy reading next to the ocean.
Clemo Books, Newquay
Best for: Community feel
33b Bank Street, Newquay TR7 1DJ
If it’s coastal views you’re searching for, the seaside town of Newquay is sure to steal your heart. It’s also the UK’s surf capital, which makes it the perfect place to get a lesson or enjoy watching the local pros from the comfort of one of its many beach cafés and restaurants. In the town, nestled amidst the surf shops, you’ll find Clemo Books, a beautiful space which has a huge focus on community. Alongside new fiction, non-fiction, and children's literature, you’ll also find lots of Cornish books great for perusing local inspiration. Plus, they host a wonderful subscription book club where books are giftwrapped and posted ahead of monthly meetings, ready for readers to discuss together. An added bonus is that Clemo is only a two-minute walk from Towan beach - the perfect reading spot for after your visit.
Waterstones, Truro
Best for: Disabled access and dog friendly
11 Boscawen Street, Truro TR1 2QU
Cornwall’s capital city and cultural hotspot, Truro has plenty to keep you entertained, whether it’s exploring the Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery, heading out for some retail therapy, or watching a performance at the Hall for Cornwall. In the middle of the city, overlooked by the cathedral, Waterstones promises to meet all of your mainstream and academic book needs. They also stock plenty of games, stationary and gifts. Upstairs, the café offers locally made cakes, organic coffee, and loose-leaf teas. The whole store is dog-friendly and provides disabled access.
Spencer Thorn, Bude
Best for: Rare titles and unique gifts
Belle Vue, Bude EX23 8JS
Beautiful Bude has been a beloved seaside escape since Victorian times. Here, you can enjoy watersports and wildlife watching along the canal, visit its excellent surf beaches, or enjoy gazing out to sea from some of the tallest cliffs in the South West via the South West Coast Path. In the town, you’ll find indie shops, a choice of restaurants, and an indie bookseller. One of Cornwall’s oldest bookshops, Spencer Thorn stocks all the latest releases, works by local writers, and children's books. They also go to great lengths to secure titles that are out of print or difficult to find. Another treat is their unusual collection of gifts, cards and toys, making it just as worth a visit if you’re looking for souvenirs.
Rubicund, Falmouth
Best for: Radical reads
St Georges Arcade, 5 - 7 Church Street, Falmouth TR11 3DH
Every university town needs a radical bookshop and that’s exactly what Rubicund is to Falmouth. Found within St George’s Arcade amongst a whole host of interesting local shops and stalls, you’ll find this eclectic bookish corner. As well as radical reads, they have a pay-it-forward scheme, where you can buy someone else a coffee or a book - and their vegan café provides the perfect place to read a few pages afterwards. If Rubicund is to your taste, we’d also recommend checking out the nearby Cornish Bank and Chintz Bar for their grassroots music performances. Or, head to The Poly for thought-provoking screenings, ceramics, jewellery, and craft items made by local artists.
West Looe Bookshop, Looe
Best for: Second-hand books
Shutta Road, Looe PL13 1BJ
Once a renowned smuggling hub, Looe is now a fishing town favoured by beach-lovers and families. On the eastern side of the town, its quay is lined with a bar and museum, whilst the high street promises an interesting mix of shops and restaurants. On the western side, you’ll discover a quieter ambience and more stores, including West Looe Bookshop. With titles for every taste, you will also be treated to an astounding second-hand section which you could spend hours browsing. Plus, a selection of art, greeting cards, and bookmarks to choose from. Afterwards, read on the banjo-shaped pier or head to one of the town’s beaches.
Edge of the World Bookshop, Penzance
Best for: Children’s books
25/26 Market Jew St, Penzance TR18 2HR
Penzance has long drawn creatives thanks to its beautiful bayside landscapes and rich history as a fishing port and market town. It’s also home to a fascinating blend of architecture, including an Art Deco outdoor swimming pool and an Egyptian house. On Market Jew Street, nestled amidst the antique and local craft stores, you’ll find the Edge of the World Bookshop. Instantly recognisable with its bright blue façade, it invites you to step inside and discover books written by local authors alongside the latest releases, as well as a fantastic children’s section. Afterwards, make your way to the promenade, Morrab Gardens, or one of the local cafés to start flicking through your latest purchase.
Beerwolf Books, Falmouth
Best for: Reading with a beer
3 Bells Court, Falmouth TR11 3AZ
When it comes to bookshops, Falmouth is the gift that keeps on giving with Beerwolf another must-visit. Here, you’ll discover a freehouse selling niche local cider and ales alongside a library-style bookshop. Browse the shelves for second-hand buys, literary fiction, and quality non-fiction, then grab a pint and settle into one of the cosy armchairs to get reading. If you’d rather save the book until later, there’s also a pinball machine and board games which are free to use. It’ll come as no surprise therefore that Beerwolf is not only one of Cornwall’s best bookshops, but was also voted ‘Britain’s coolest pub’. The icing on the cake is that if you want to stay longer, you can even bring your own grub.
Ready for a coastal escape where the bookshops are as inspiring as the scenery? Browse our holiday cottages in Cornwall for the perfect relaxing getaway.
Tags: Cornwall