Brick Lane Bookshop has long been one of East London’s favourite haunts. The beloved bookstore provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of this busy part of town. Take a step inside to find the perfect book to take home and curl up with.
A Short History of Brick Lane Bookshop
Brick Lane Bookshop was first opened in 1978. One of London’s favourite independent bookshops, it began as part of the Tower Hamlets Arts Project – which itself came in reaction to a protest. In the early 70s Tower Hamlet did not have a single bookshop despite being an area of London that had been home to iconic writers, including Mary Wollstonecraft.
Co-founder of Brick Lane bookshop says that there ‘were a group of local people who were not prepared to put up with this’ – and we don’t blame them! It started small as a market stall, eventually culminating into the THAP bookshop on Watney Market.
The shop then moved to a location in Whitechapel – with the upstairs being used to run meetings for local writers and community groups.
What Types of Books Does Brick Lane Bookshop Sell?
Brick Lane Bookshop sells a wide variety of books. Stocking fiction, non-fiction, kids’ books, poetry, essays, travel guides, cards and more. They also stock lots of London books – which just so happen to be our favourite genre!
If you can’t find the works you’re after, let the staff know as they can order in books in print and have them with you within a couple of days.
Where is Brick Lane Bookshop & How to Get Here
Location:
166 Brick Lane
E1 6RU
How to Get Here:
The shop is located just a short walk from Liverpool Street, Aldgate East, and Shoreditch High Street stations.
Alternatively there are a number of bus routes that also have stops nearby: 8, 26, 35, 42, 47, 48, 55, 149, 242, 344, 388
Bookshop Events on Brick Lane
The bookshop hosts a variety of events in store – from book launches, to author talks and so much more.
Take a look at their events page to find a literary event for you!
The Short Story Prize
In 2019, Brick Lane Bookshop launched their very own Short Story Prize competition. The winning pieces each year will find their way into the store’s anthologies. The publishing of their work has allowed winning authors to go on and have success with agents and publishers.
Subscribe to Independently Published Books
As an independent business themselves, Brick Lane likes to connect readers with independent publishers. Their unique book subscription service celebrates the very best in independent publishing. Each month you can receive a handpicked book, most often a new release, to your door.
If they happen to send you a book they already have – just let the shop know! They’ll switch it out for another title by the same publisher!
Where to Eat & What to Do After Your Visit
Located right in the heart of Brick Lane, you’re going to be spoilt for choice with what to eat after you’ve picked up your next favourite book!
If you’re in need of a sweet treat, we’d recommend stopping at one of London’s best chocolate shops – Dark Sugars. Here you’ll find delectable hot chocolate and delicious nibbles you’ll be dying to take home.
For a more hearty meal, we recommend popping over to Spitalfields Market and choosing from the vast array of outlets on offer here! This location is also fantastic if you’re in a group as you can all have different food!
About The London Eats List
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