Hatchards Piccadilly
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Hatchards Piccadilly

4.8
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

London's oldest bookshop since 1797, offering a vast selection of new, rare, and signed books in a charming, historic setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
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Hatchards Piccadilly

Hatchards Piccadilly

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

London's oldest bookshop since 1797, offering a vast selection of new, rare, and signed books in a charming, historic setting.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"A must-see for bookstore lovers, full of books and charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Explore Every Floor

Don't stop at the ground floor! Each level offers a different selection and cozy reading spots.

📅 Check Event Schedule

See if there are any author signings or literary talks happening during your visit.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 2,328 reviews

Type

Book Store

♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rare & Signed Editions

Rare & Signed Editions

Discover special editions, signed copies, and first editions for a truly unique literary find.

Charming Interior Ambiance

Charming Interior Ambiance

Explore multiple floors filled with books, featuring cozy armchairs for a delightful reading session.

Literary Events & Signings

Literary Events & Signings

Catch author talks, book launches, and signing events for an unforgettable literary experience.

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Planning Your Visit

A Book Lover's Pilgrimage

Hatchards is London's oldest bookshop, a literary haven since 1797. Expect a treasure trove of new releases, rare finds, and expert recommendations. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves the feel and smell of real books.

Beyond the Shelves

More than just a shop, Hatchards hosts author events and signings. Check their schedule before you visit for a chance to meet your favorite writers. The charming interiors offer cozy nooks for a quiet browse.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Crowd
Low
When
During Author Events
Why
Meet authors, get signed books
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Itinerary Help! 3ish Days in London in September

We are two adults traveling to London in early September for 3ish days (we are traveling elsewhere in England for a hiking trip after this). We like old history, cool architecture, boats (lol), and books. Don't care very much about art, modern royal stuff, or Harry Potter. We…

📚 Explore Every Floor

Don't stop at the ground floor! Each level offers a different selection and cozy reading spots. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

See if there are any author signings or literary talks happening during your visit. Reddit

reddit.com

Books & Tea in London

Hi, I'm coming to London this week and I would love to learn about some bookshops and teashops worth a visit. I know about Waterstones of course, but I would appreciate tips for smaller, more charming ones (i read mostly fantasy/sci-fi). And also some tips for teashops would be…

reddit.com

Books to read while visiting London

Hi all, I am visiting England for the first time next week and would love to bring along a few books based in the country or London itself. I know there are a TON of classics, but I’m looking for something more modern. Also, any suggestions of bookstores to visit while I’m there?

🧐 Ask the Experts

Staff are knowledgeable and can help you find specific titles or recommend new reads. Reddit

🎁 Perfect for Gifts

Find unique and special edition books that make for memorable gifts. Reddit

reddit.com

9-Days in London: Help me finalize this

Hi, I saw another redditor post something similar so I thought of doing the same. Me and my partner are going to to London in a few weeks we're finalizing our itinerary. For context, we've travelled to France, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines before so we're used…

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Explore Every Floor

Don't stop at the ground floor! Each level offers a different selection and cozy reading spots. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

See if there are any author signings or literary talks happening during your visit. Reddit

🧐 Ask the Experts

Staff are knowledgeable and can help you find specific titles or recommend new reads. Reddit

🎁 Perfect for Gifts

Find unique and special edition books that make for memorable gifts. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hatchards is consistently praised as a must-visit destination for book lovers, celebrated for its extensive selection, including rare and signed editions, and its charming, historic atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the cozy reading nooks, though some note that navigating the multi-level store can be a bit of a climb. It's a quintessential London bookshop experience.

"This is the bookstore if you are looking for a special or signed copy book or first edition. It is as a paper book store lover the dream it's full of books and I believe you will find what you are looking for here and otherwise I'm sure they will be able to order it. If you are in London and love bookstores and books this is one of the must sees for bookstore lovers."

O.

"I’ve been walking past this bookshop since I was a kid and only just found out it’s actually the oldest one around. Honestly it has everything from kids books and fiction to history, architecture, politics, art, culture and even rare finds. Definitely worth checking out."

Bloomy Loomy

"Favorite bookstore to shop in London. The curation is fantastic any book I can’t find elsewhere I find here. And the interiors are so charming. I like going all the way to the top floor and sinking into one of the armchairs for a little read."

N H

What People Like

Vast book selection
Rare & signed editions
Charming interiors

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Upper floors less accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hatchards is conveniently located on Piccadilly in central London. The nearest Tube stations are Piccadilly Circus and Green Park, both within a short walking distance. Many bus routes also serve the Piccadilly area, making it easily accessible via public transport. Reddit

While the historic nature of the building presents some challenges, Hatchards strives to be as accessible as possible. It's advisable to contact them directly regarding specific accessibility needs, especially for upper floors. Reddit

Walking is often the most enjoyable way to reach Hatchards if you're in nearby areas like Regent Street or St. James's. Alternatively, the London Underground is very efficient, with Piccadilly Circus being a major hub. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hatchards is a retail bookshop, and there is no admission fee to enter and browse its extensive collection. You only pay for the books you wish to purchase. Reddit

Hatchards typically opens around 10 AM and closes around 7 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times, especially around holidays. Reddit

Yes, Hatchards is known for its excellent customer service and can often order books for you if they don't have them in stock, or hold a copy if you've found something specific. Reddit

For author events and book signings, you may need to purchase a specific ticket or book, which often includes a copy of the featured book. Check the Hatchards events page for details and booking information. Reddit

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

Hatchards offers a vast selection, including fiction, non-fiction, history, biographies, children's books, and a significant collection of rare and signed editions. They pride themselves on a well-curated inventory. Reddit

Absolutely! Hatchards is renowned for its collection of special, signed, and first edition books, making it a dream destination for collectors and those seeking something extraordinary. Reddit

Yes, many visitors enjoy the charming interiors, which include comfortable armchairs on various floors, perfect for settling in with a potential purchase. Reddit

Definitely. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable booksellers who are happy to provide personalized recommendations based on your interests. Reddit

As London's oldest bookshop, Hatchards offers a unique historical atmosphere combined with an exceptional selection of books, including many hard-to-find titles and a strong focus on literary events. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Hatchards itself does not have a cafe or dining facilities. However, the Piccadilly area is brimming with cafes, restaurants, and pubs, offering plenty of options for a meal or a coffee break before or after your visit. Reddit

You'll find numerous excellent coffee shops within a few minutes' walk of Hatchards. From well-known chains to independent cafes, Piccadilly offers a wide variety to satisfy your caffeine needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted inside Hatchards, especially to capture the charming interiors. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other shoppers or staff. Reddit

The multi-level layout, the classic book displays, and the cozy reading nooks offer many picturesque opportunities. The grand facade of the building is also a great photo subject. Reddit