Any Amount of Books
In the heart of central London (only 50 yards away from Leicester Square) resides one of the best second-hand book shops that London has to offer. With books ranging from 1 quid to some rare editions costing thousands of pounds, this shop offers visitors an overwhelming selection and variety of books to explore. A haven for book lovers, you could spend days and days in Any Amount of Books.
Persephone Books
Persephone Books are specialised booksellers who publish the neglected works of 20th century female authors. This unique bookshop is located in a Grade II listed building near Russell Square. The downstairs of this building remains untouched from its establishment in the 17th century, providing beautiful and ornate interiors to this hidden gem.
Charles Dickens Museum
48 Doughty Street was Charles Dickens’ London home. Nowadays, it stands as a museum entirely dedicated to the life and times of Charles Dickens. This is the perfect Victorian escape for literature fans out there. Take a tour of this refined manor and get inside the head of one of the greatest writers in English history. This is where Dickens brought up his family, entertained his guests and where he wrote several of his iconic novels including the Oliver Twist. This place is a historical jewel for all book-worms, who are hungry for the knowledge of literature.
The Garden Squares of Bloomsbury
During the 20s and 30s these grounds were a hotspot for radical writers and intellectuals to meet up and put the world to rights. These establishment-shakers were known as the Bloomsbury group and included legendary figures like Virginia Woolf, John Maynard Keynes and E.M. Forster.
Marvel in the history of this place as you spy out all the heritage plaques with familiar names that adorn these gardens.
National Art Library at the V&A
The Victoria and Albert Museum in Kensington is home to one of the largest collections of decorative arts in existence, as well as one of the most extensive art libraries in the UK.
If you’re looking for a book on anything creative or artistic, this gorgeous library welcomes you with open arms to browse, explore and marvel in its majesty.
London with its rich history, literature, iconic book shops and great libraries is a delightful city for lovers of books and art. Book a stay with the LUMA Concept Hotel London in Hammersmith to easily access the above and other great attractions in the city.