The Secret Kingdoms
Madrid's premier English bookstore, offering a vast selection of new & used books in a cozy, community-focused atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful browsing
The Secret Kingdoms
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Madrid's premier English bookstore, offering a vast selection of new & used books in a cozy, community-focused atmosphere.
"An oasis for English culture with perhaps the biggest offer of English language books in Madrid."
🎯 Explore Used Book Bargains
Hunt for incredible deals in the second-hand section – you might find hidden gems! :moneybag:
🗣️ Join English Conversation
Improve your English by joining their conversation practice groups. Message them to join! :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast English Book Selection
Throughout the store
An extensive collection of new and used English books, from classics to contemporary hits. A true bibliophile's paradise.
Cozy Reading Nooks
Back of the store
Relax and immerse yourself in a good book in the charming seating area amidst used volumes.
Special Editions & Classics
Display shelves
Discover curated collections of special edition books and affordable classic literature.
LGBTQI+ & Asian Literature
Dedicated sections
Explore diverse voices with dedicated sections for LGBTQI+ and Asian literature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Literary Charm
Community & Conversation Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Used Book Bargains
Hunt for incredible deals in the second-hand section – you might find hidden gems! :moneybag:
🗣️ Join English Conversation
Improve your English by joining their conversation practice groups. Message them to join! :speech_balloon:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Haven
Bring your furry friend along! This bookstore is welcoming to dogs. :dog:
📚 Discover Penguin Mini Classics
Check out the charming Penguin mini classics for a portable literary experience. :book:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Used Book Bargains
Hunt for incredible deals in the second-hand section – you might find hidden gems! :moneybag:
🗣️ Join English Conversation
Improve your English by joining their conversation practice groups. Message them to join! :speech_balloon:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Haven
Bring your furry friend along! This bookstore is welcoming to dogs. :dog:
📚 Discover Penguin Mini Classics
Check out the charming Penguin mini classics for a portable literary experience. :book:
📍 Visit the Barrio de las Letras
The bookstore is located in the historic 'Barrio de las Letras' – explore the neighborhood too! :map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Secret Kingdoms, calling it a 'quaint,' 'cozy,' and 'amazing' English bookstore in Madrid. Its vast selection of new and used books, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit for book lovers. Some note that while 'large' is relative in Madrid, it truly offers an impressive collection for the city.
"It's quaint. It's cute. It's well stocked. It's cozy. It's a great place to get lost in.
There was this wonderful, sweet lignin scent that lingeredin the air when you entered...I practically touched half of the books on each shelf,in each section just to take it all in. Staff was kind and engaging. Definitely one of the better bookstores in Madrid."
Nola
"Fantastic English language bookshop in the heart of a historic district of Madrid, with a wide array of literature, history, art, Madrid guides, cuisine, young adult fiction, used books, etc. Independent owned by a an Anglo-Spanish couple, very friendly, they will find any book for you if not available at the bookstore. An oasis for English culture with perhaps the biggest offer of English language books in Madrid with more than 20.000 books. Dog friendly"
Guillermo Iso
"An amazing bookstore, has all the books in English from young adult to the classics and they even have a used/sale section with a different range of books. The place is amazing and the attention as well."
Ari Asmat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Secret Kingdoms is located at Calle de Moratín, 7, in the heart of Madrid's historic Barrio de las Letras. You can easily reach it by metro, with nearby stations like Antón Martín (Line 1) or Sol (Lines 1, 2, 3, Cercanías). Many bus routes also stop close by. It's a very walkable area, so consider exploring on foot if you're in the city center! +1
Yes, it's very accessible. The nearest metro stations are Antón Martín and Sol, both within a short walking distance. Numerous bus lines also serve the area, making it convenient to reach via public transport.
The bookstore is in the charming Barrio de las Letras, known for its literary history. Wander its streets, discover hidden plazas, and soak in the artistic atmosphere. The Secret Kingdoms even offers a guide to the barrio!
Street parking in this central Madrid neighborhood can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi/ride-sharing service to reach the bookstore.
Absolutely! Puerta del Sol is just a short and pleasant walk away, making it easy to combine a visit to the bookstore with other central Madrid attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter The Secret Kingdoms. It's an independent bookstore, and you're welcome to browse freely.
The Secret Kingdoms is now open seven days a week, from Monday to Sunday. This makes it convenient for visitors any day of the week.
Yes, the friendly staff at The Secret Kingdoms are happy to help you find any book, and they can order it for you if it's not currently in stock.
There is no admission fee. You can freely enter and explore the shelves filled with English books.
The Secret Kingdoms hosts English conversation practice groups and other community events. It's best to check their social media or contact them directly for the latest schedule.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast selection of English books, including new releases, classics, young adult fiction, history, art, Madrid guides, cuisine, LGBTQI+ literature, Asian literature, and a large section of used books. +3
For Madrid, it's considered quite large and holds a substantial collection of English books, offering a wide array that's hard to find elsewhere in the city.
Yes, there's a refreshment and seating area in the back, nestled among the used books, perfect for a relaxing read.
Absolutely! They have a fantastic second-hand book section where you can find great bargains and unique finds.
Yes, they have a dedicated section for young adult fiction, and many of their books are suitable for younger readers.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While they have a seating area in the back, it's primarily for reading. They don't operate a full cafe service, but the seating area is a lovely spot to enjoy a book.
The bookstore is located in the vibrant Barrio de las Letras, which is packed with cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants offering a wide range of Spanish and international cuisine. You'll have plenty of options nearby.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the bookstore to keep the books in pristine condition. The seating area is for enjoying books, not a picnic spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture the charming atmosphere. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and staff. +1
The entire store has a charming aesthetic! The displays, the cozy reading nooks, and the shelves packed with colorful books are all highly photogenic. +1
While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, it's good practice to tag the bookstore and be respectful of the space. Many visitors share their finds and the store's ambiance online. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to give children ample space to browse. The staff's helpfulness extends to assisting families in finding age-appropriate reads. Plus, the nearby Barrio de las Letras offers plenty of family-friendly cafes for a post-bookstore treat.
📚 Budget Travelers & Book Lovers
Beyond the used books, the store also offers affordable editions of classics, like Wordsworth and Penguin mini classics, making literary exploration accessible. It's the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or a new favorite read without overspending.
🗣️ Expats & Language Learners
The welcoming environment and friendly staff make it a comfortable space to practice and learn. It’s a fantastic way to integrate into the local community and make new friends who share similar interests.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for English Literature in Madrid
Beyond its extensive selection, the bookstore offers a curated experience. You can find special editions and collector's items for those seeking something unique, alongside affordable Wordsworth classics and Penguin mini editions. The presence of a robust second-hand book section further enhances its appeal, offering incredible bargains and the thrill of discovering pre-loved literary treasures.
This dedication to providing a comprehensive English literary experience makes The Secret Kingdoms a must-visit for expats, tourists, and locals alike who wish to connect with English-language culture in Madrid. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are also a highlight, always ready to help you find that perfect book.
More Than Just Books: A Community Space
This community focus is a key differentiator, making the bookstore a welcoming hub for both locals and newcomers to Madrid. It's a place where you can meet new people, share your love for reading, and feel a sense of belonging. The staff's engagement and the store's cozy atmosphere contribute significantly to this welcoming environment, making it a favorite spot for many.
Whether you're looking to join a book club, practice your conversational English, or simply enjoy the ambiance of a well-loved bookstore, The Secret Kingdoms offers a unique and enriching experience. It's a testament to how a bookstore can become a vibrant center for cultural exchange and social connection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit