Books / Bookshops
Bristol bookshop named among best in UK
A Bristol bookshop has been named as one of the best independent bookshops in the UK.
Heron Books in Clifton Arcade off Boyce’s Avenue in Clifton Village was chosen in a list of the Times’ readers’ favourites.
Run by Lizzie Moss, a former teacher and Waterstones manager who lives in Bishopsworth, Heron Books is one of Bristol’s smallest bookshops.
is needed now More than ever
The readers’ favourites highlighted places that “combined books with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere”, with the Poetry Pharmacy at Bishop’s Castle in Shropshire coming first.
Heron Books was praised for its welcoming environment, events and diverse book knowledge
Heron Books was chosen by Bob Walton, a Bristol-based writer and founder-member of the poetry workshop and performance group, the Spoke.
“We’re not short of wonderful independent bookshops in Bristol but since Heron Books opened in 2022 something magical has appeared in the mix,” Bob said.
Heron Books, one of Bristol’s smallest bookshops, is nestled into Clifton Arcade
“It is easily the smallest bookshop imaginable (in a beautiful Victorian arcade) but that doesn’t stop the owner, Lizzie, assisted by Josh and Harry, packing it with a huge range of diverse and up-to-date titles.
“There is a large section for children that shows their belief in young readers, a brilliant ordering service, great warmth, knowledge and humour in conversation, and lots of events where they somehow shoehorn audiences of 25 into their little box of wonders.
“They even wrap your orders in brown paper tied with string and stamped with the Heron logo. So many of us feel that it has become our home-from-home.”
Bristol’s bookshops are among some of the best in the UK. Last year, Bookhaus in Wapping Wharf, Max Minerva’s in Henleaze, and Storysmith on North Street were named as regional finalists in the British Book Awards 2023.
Storysmith was awarded again in March as the best bookshop in the South West in the Independent Bookshop of the Year awards.
After the news, Tom Tivnan, Storysmith co-owner, said the accolade was “a reflection of how Bristol has become one of the best cities in the country for bookshops”.
All photos: Martin Booth
Read next:
- African literature highlighted in new pop-up bookshop
- New art gallery opens in Clifton Arcade
- Three Bristol bookshops shortlisted for Independent Bookshop of the Year 2023
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