
Armchair Books Edinburgh
A cozy, family-run haven overflowing with rare & secondhand books, offering an immersive literary adventure.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time

Armchair Books Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cozy, family-run haven overflowing with rare & secondhand books, offering an immersive literary adventure.
"This is not just a bookstore; it's an experience. The shop is a glorious labyrinth of books."

📸 Photo Etiquette
Be mindful of the 'no extensive Instagram photoshoots' sign. Respect the space for fellow book lovers.
📚 Sell Your Books
If you want to sell books, email them first before visiting. Don't just show up with your collection.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bookish Maze
Throughout the store
Lose yourself in towering stacks of rare and secondhand books, a bibliophile's dream come true.

Affordable Treasures
Throughout the store
Discover incredible deals on a diverse range of genres, with many books priced at £2-£5.

Quirky Charm
Throughout the store
Experience the unique, cluttered atmosphere and friendly staff that make this bookshop a true gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bookish Labyrinth
Respect the Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Saw this picture taken in Edinburgh on a travel Instagram post, does anyone know where it is?
📸 Photo Etiquette
Be mindful of the 'no extensive Instagram photoshoots' sign. Respect the space for fellow book lovers.
📚 Sell Your Books
If you want to sell books, email them first before visiting. Don't just show up with your collection.
29F Taking a solo trip to Edinburgh in January... Tips?
💰 Student Discount
Students can often get an additional discount, making already affordable books even cheaper. :moneybag:
🛍️ Cute Totes Available
Look out for their charming and affordable tote bags, perfect for carrying your new literary finds. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Etiquette
Be mindful of the 'no extensive Instagram photoshoots' sign. Respect the space for fellow book lovers.
📚 Sell Your Books
If you want to sell books, email them first before visiting. Don't just show up with your collection.
💰 Student Discount
Students can often get an additional discount, making already affordable books even cheaper. :moneybag:
🛍️ Cute Totes Available
Look out for their charming and affordable tote bags, perfect for carrying your new literary finds. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Armchair Books is a beloved, treasure-filled secondhand bookshop offering an immersive experience for bibliophiles. Visitors rave about the vast, well-organized selection and incredibly affordable prices, making it a must-visit for book lovers. Some note the shop's policy against extensive Instagram photoshoots, emphasizing its primary role as a place for genuine browsing and discovery.
"Armchair Books is an absolute treasure! This is not just a bookstore; it's an experience. The shop is a glorious labyrinth of books, stacked from floor to ceiling and overflowing into every nook and cranny. The wonderful, dusty scent of old paper and the cozy, cluttered atmosphere create a perfect haven for any bibliophile. You could easily lose hours in here, just wandering and discovering new titles or long-forgotten classics. The selection is incredibly diverse, and the charm of the place is only enhanced by the lovely, knowledgeable staff. Armchair Books embodies everything a great second-hand bookshop should be. A truly magical and unmissable spot in Edinburgh."
S Gries
"This is one of my top 3 secondhand bookshops in the UK. Not only do they have amazingly well organized collections in many genres (I have bought sci-fi, philosophy, history and fantasy), but the books are truly affordable (I have never paid more than £5, and I have found many books for £2 or £3). Second hand bookshops in the UK are not always cheap as they focus on antique books, but not here. They even give you an additional discount as a student. The attendants are helpful and friendly. I live in Glasgow and go to Edinburgh just to go here, as it is a treasure trove for a book lover."
Gaston Bacquet
"We had a fantastic time searching through the aisles and shelves of this hidden gem. This bookstore collects a vast selection of old books, ranging from classics and religious texts to comic books from your childhood. You may find your treasure here! If you wish to sell books to Armchair Books, you have to email them first before you arrive."
Pui Yu Chan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Armchair Books is located in the Grassmarket area of Edinburgh. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center. Several bus routes also stop nearby. Consider using a journey planner app for real-time bus information.
Street parking in the Grassmarket can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if you're staying in the city center. The nearest multi-story car parks are a short walk away.
The Grassmarket is a historic area with lots of shops and pubs. Combine your visit to Armchair Books with a stroll around the area to soak in the atmosphere. It's a great spot for photos, but remember the bookstore's photo policy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Armchair Books is free. It's a retail space, so you can browse to your heart's content without purchasing a ticket. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check their website or social media pages before your visit. Generally, they are open daily, but specific times might differ. :clock1:
While they are knowledgeable about their inventory, specific book reservations might not be a standard service. It's best to visit in person to browse and purchase. If you have a specific rare book in mind, you could try emailing them.
There is no admission fee to enter Armchair Books. You are welcome to browse the extensive collection freely. :free:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is incredibly cozy, cluttered, and charming. Expect towering stacks of books, a dusty scent of old paper, and a labyrinthine layout that invites exploration. It's a true haven for book lovers.
Many visitors find themselves happily lost for hours. Plan for at least 1-2 hours, but be prepared to stay longer if you get engrossed in browsing. It's easy to lose track of time here.
While children can visit, the sheer volume of books and narrow aisles might make it challenging for very young or energetic kids. It's best suited for children who can quietly browse or appreciate books. :child:
You can take quick personal photos, but there's a sign requesting visitors not to conduct extensive Instagram photoshoots. The focus is on browsing and buying books, not on being a photo backdrop.
Yes, the staff are generally described as helpful and knowledgeable about their inventory. They contribute to the welcoming and charming atmosphere of the shop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The Grassmarket is packed with cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide range of food options, from quick bites to sit-down meals. You won't go hungry after your book browsing session.
It's generally not recommended to bring food or drinks into a bookstore, especially one with so many delicate old books. To avoid any accidents, it's best to consume them outside the shop. :noentrysign:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire interior is photogenic with its towering book stacks. However, be mindful of the sign requesting no extensive Instagram photoshoots. Focus on capturing the essence of the books and the cozy atmosphere.
Yes, while casual photos are usually fine, they request that visitors do not use the shop as a backdrop for prolonged Instagram photoshoots. Respect this request to ensure a good experience for everyone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Encourage your children to pick out one or two special books. The affordable prices make it easier to let them choose something they truly love. Also, be mindful of the bookstore's policy regarding extensive photoshoots, as this might limit opportunities for family photo ops.
📚 Budget Book Lovers
Tip: Look out for potential student discounts if you have a valid ID. The shop also offers a great selection of genres, so whether you're into sci-fi, history, or philosophy, you're likely to find something you love at a bargain price.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Secondhand Books
The atmosphere is a key part of the experience. The description of a 'glorious labyrinth' and books 'stacked from floor to ceiling' paints a vivid picture. This isn't just a place to buy books; it's a destination to experience books. The 'dusty scent of old paper' is a sensory delight for bibliophiles, creating a cozy and immersive environment. It's this unique combination of selection, price, and ambiance that makes Armchair Books a standout.
Navigating the Bookish Labyrinth
For those looking to sell books, the process is specific: you must email them first before bringing your collection. This helps them manage their inventory and ensures they are interested in what you have to offer. It's a practical step that avoids disappointment for sellers.
Beyond the books, the shop also offers cute and affordable tote bags. These are a great souvenir and a practical way to carry your new literary haul. The staff are noted for being knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit