A Local’s Guide: Best Bookstores in Edinburgh

If you are a bookworm like me, then read this post to find the best bookshops in Edinburgh. After all, Edinburgh is known as the city of literature!

In this post I have tried my best to include independent bookshops that you can only find here in the city.

John Kay’s Shop, Victoria Street

John Kay was a renowned Scottish caricaturist and self taught miniature portrait painter in the late 1700’s in Edinburgh.
Today the bookshop situated at the top of the colourful Victoria Street are purveyors of antique books and have an extensive Scottish story collection.
I also recommend to my guest they pick up a copy of Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” book, they have an exclusive special edition cover of the book (to my knowledge you can only buy this book there)
They specialise in old rare vintage books, maps and Scottish folklore and history. If you are looking for a souvenir to take back about Scotland you will surely find something in here.

Arm Chair Books, West Port

This cosy cute bookshop not too far from the Grassmarket sells second hand and antique books. As you enter you will smell the old book smell and be immersed in the stacks and shelves filled with stories. Be prepared to stay a little while to fully explore their collection, look out for some Victorian era books. They also have a nice collection of science fiction books and beautifully bound hard back classic books.

Blackwells, South Bridge

Although Blackwells are not exclusive to Edinburgh, this particular shop is Scotland's oldest bookshop dating back to 1848.

It is located directly across from the University of Edinburgh Old College and I would say this probably one of my favourite bookshops in the city.
Set over three floors, there is literally something for everyone here.

My favourite section is the Scottish section which you can find on the ground floor. The second floor has a plethora of travel guides, academic books, art, nature and an extensive true crime section too.

The basement has a large collection of board games, puzzles and sci-fi books. I have come across a few authour signed books here, including Outlander star Sam Heughan’s latest whisky book.
There is also an art supplies section which has a selection of books bound in simple brown packaging paper where you can select a random book to enjoy.

I would suggest once you have secured a book, head to nearby Black Medicine Coffee for a cosy afternoon.

The Portobello Bookshop, Portobello High Street

Although not directly in Edinburgh, Portobello bookshop is easily accessed via the city bus links (30 minutes from Edinburgh city centre). Portobello is home to Edinburgh’s beachfront and there are lots of places to eat here too.
Inside this modern and warmly lit shop they have a good range of graphic novels, beautifully illustrated art books and a large children's book section.

I was also impressed by their political and history section too, this is the place to go to create your Christmas book wish list. They also have gift vouchers and tote bags for sale if you wish to create a gift.

Portobello is independently run and if you are after something special they do stock some signed editions and offers some dedications too. If you are local, I would follow their social media for up coming bookish events they have on.

Argonaut Books, Leith Walk

Argonaut are relatively new edition to Leith Walk (2021) but as a local in this area they are a big part of the Leith community now and this bookshop is always thriving.
They a good range of horror, sci-fi and fiction novels. Along the back wall you will see a collection of zines and graphic novels, alongside a collection of witchcraft related books.

I always have a look at their cookery and recipe books which are always unique and make great coffee table books. Tucked in the corner they have a children and young adults section with bright colourful storybooks.

They are a community bookshop and frequently have events and book clubs. Inside you can also enjoy a coffee and sit down next to the window and watch the hustle and bustle of Leith Walk.

Topping and Company, Elm Row

This is such a beautiful store, set over three floors Topping and Co is set in a grade three listed Georgian building in the centre of Edinburgh. The hand finished bookshelves are floor to ceiling and come with a rather cool looking moving ladders.
Inside they have lots of nooks to explore and filled with local knowledge books, autobiographies and a really wide travel book section. I also love they offer free tea and biscuits whilst you browse the shelves.

They have a few signed edition copies on the ground floor. I would also keep an eye on their social media for book themed events.

Lighthouse Book, West Nicholson Street

Lighthouse is a queer owned and women led bookshop. They are Scotland’s first radical bookshop and absolutely worth of a look in.

The sell a huge range of LGBT+ books, revolutionary history books, poetry and left wing political texts. I usually bee-line for their Scottish political section, however they also have a shelf dedicated to what is happening in the Middle East with informative materials on Palestine (look out for Palestine, a graphic Novel by Joe Sacco).

I love this store if you are looking for a new topic to read and I especially love their children section, they have a diverse range of books to inspire younger readers.
At the checkout you will spot small trinkets, pin badges and art to take home.

Edinburgh Community Bookshop, Great Junction Street

Edinburgh Community bookshop is another great find in the heart of Leith, they sell second hand books and the shop supports a different local charity every month. Filled with good quality second hand books, you will find a mix of all genres here and some great bargains too. You also donate books here if you are local.