Barter Books is an iconic bookshop located in the small market town of Alnwick in Northumberland, England. Founded in 1991 by Stuart and Mary Manley, Barter Books has become one of the most popular literary tourist attractions in the area. The shop is a haven for book lovers and secondhand book collectors, offering a wide selection of used and out-of-print books.
History
The Manley family moved to Alnwick in 1991 and opened Barter Books in an old Victorian railway station. The station had been abandoned since 1968, and the Manleys transformed it into a bookshop with two railway carriages as reading rooms. Barter Books has since become a beloved local institution, and it is now one of the largest secondhand bookshops in Europe.
What to Expect
Barter Books is a paradise for book lovers. The shop is filled with more than one million books, including used and out-of-print titles. Visitors can browse the selection of books, which range from rare first editions to children’s books. There is also a selection of rare maps, prints, and postcards.
The shop also features two reading rooms, which are housed in old railway carriages. Visitors can relax and enjoy a book in these carriages, which are surrounded by bookshelves. There is also a café, which serves light refreshments and snacks.
Tours
Barter Books offers guided tours of the shop, which are available on request. The tours provide an in-depth look at the shop’s history and offer visitors the chance to learn more about the Manley family’s journey in creating Barter Books.
Admission
Admission to Barter Books is free. Visitors can browse the selection of books and enjoy the reading rooms without paying an admission fee.
Tips for Tourists
- Barter Books is open seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm.
- The shop is wheelchair accessible.
- Visitors can bring their own books to trade for store credit.
- The café serves light refreshments and snacks.
- The shop offers guided tours of the shop.
- The shop also hosts regular events, such as book signings and literary talks.
Practical Information
Barter Books is located in the small market town of Alnwick in Northumberland, England. The shop is accessible by car or public transport. The nearest train station is Alnmouth, which is just a few miles away. There is also a bus service that stops outside the shop.
Conclusion
Barter Books is an iconic bookshop located in the small market town of Alnwick in Northumberland, England. Founded in 1991 by Stuart and Mary Manley, Barter Books has become one of the most popular literary tourist attractions in the area. The shop is a haven for book lovers and secondhand book collectors, offering a wide selection of used and out-of-print books. Visitors can browse the selection of books, enjoy the reading rooms, and take part in guided tours of the shop. Admission to Barter Books is free, and the shop is open seven days a week.
