We might have some writer’s bias here, but we think bookshops are simply the best places in the world. Often cosy and romantic – full of knowledge about our world and stories of worlds beyond – they offer an escape from the drudge of day-to-day life. Whether you’re after Lee Child-like crime thrillers or high fantasy novels in the image of JRR Tolkien, maybe just a play of collection of poetry, your local bookstore should be your best friend. We’ll probably buy more books than we read from these brilliant independent bookshops in Birmingham this World Book Day (March 7).
1. The Heath
The streets once flourished with independent bookshops in Birmingham, but these days not so much. So it’s brilliant to see new bookstores popping up again. The Heath only opened in 2022 but is already one of our favourites. We can spend hours in this cute and cosy bookshop with shelves upon shelves of novels; spaces to sit and peruse them; and they even sell coffee to keep our energy levels up. They’re dog-friendly too!
Kings Court, 94 High St, King’s Heath, Birmingham B14 7JZ
2. Bear Bookshop
Bear Bookshop, the woman-owned and independent bookshop near Birmingham, is completely devoted to children’s books. We all know the joy of reading and this bookshop aims to gift that feeling to more children and parents too. There’s a massive range of beautifully crafted picture books to get stuck into here. All ready to transport your little ones to new worlds and wonders. To learn more head here.
588 Bearwood Rd, Bearwood, Smethwick B66 4BW
3. Voce Books
Another new one among bookshops in Birmingham for you, Voce Books in Digbeth is the sleek and trendy bookstore the neighbourhood has been dying for. Be it creative non-fiction or cutting-edge novelists, this should be your first port-of-call for independent publishers and storytellers. The stuff you won’t find in Waterstones.
54-57 Allison Street, Digbeth, Birmingham
4. Court 15 Books
We get it, not everyone wants to splash the cash on new books all the time. And with decades of brilliant books – all with unique and timely covers – why do we always need to buy new? Court 15 Books is Birmingham’s best second-hand bookstore giving our old books some much-needed love. The 19th-century building it sits in is owned by the National Trust, with all funds raised going back into maintenance. So drop off your surplus books or find treasure from someone else’s trash today.
Back to Basics, 61-63 Hurst St, Birmingham B5 4TE
5. Ikon Bookshop
A bit more specialist, this bookshop in Birmingham can be found inside Ikon Gallery – near to the Sea Life Centre. These books are an extension of the cutting-edge and contemporary art found in the gallery. And are bound to inspire your inner artist. Ikon Bookshop stocks new titles on topics like art theory, design, architecture, illustration and well-being, plus a selection of coffee table classics that are a little easier to intake.
1 Oozells St, Brindley Pl, Brindleyplace, Birmingham B1 2HS
6. MyBookbasket
MyBookbasket offers a large section of culturally diverse books largely aimed at children. But, don’t worry, because there’s a large range of quality reads for parents and adults to enjoy too! Their range largely covers the African diaspora in Britain, America, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond. But there’s always something here – regardless of background – anyone can enjoy. MyBookbasket also runs an online and physical adult book club, as well as regular storytime sessions for the under 10s.
Legacy Centre, 144 Potters Ln, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU
7. Second City Comics
If you’re a big nerd like us (and who isn’t these days?), then you need to check out Second City Comics. Stocking a huge range of comic book back issues and graphic novels from all publishers – alongside all sorts of action figures and pop culture memorabilia – you’ll find it tucked inside Red Brick Market in Digbeth. Get busy digging for those gems!
Located inside Red Brick Market, 119 Floodgate St, Birmingham B5 5SU