Best spots in London for Literature lovers
Calling all fans of literary anything !!
The marvellous city of London has influenced authors and their works for centuries, from Dickens to Orwell, Bronte to Austen. Whether you live here and would like to get out more to explore your beloved city (literally me), or are planning a trip to this capital teeming with literary history, this can be a fun guide to consult when pondering some of the best places to visit.
Be sure to check out the websites for some of these locations, for information about entry fees or opening times!
Charles Dickens Museum: 48–49 Doughty St, London WC1N 2LX
The Dickens Museum was first opened to the public in 1925. Originally a boarding house, the building now stores a collection of Dickens’ work: letters, portraits, decorations, making you feel as if you have gone back in time to the Victorian era. Dickens not only was a world-famous author, some popular works of his including ‘Oliver Twist’ and ‘Great Expectations’, but he was also an advocate for social and political change.
What a gem.
I can’t help but think that Jo March would’ve absolutely loved this place. A must visit for die-hard Dickens fans.
2. Westminster Abbey’s Poets’ Corner: 20 Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PA
Located in the south transept of one of the longest standing and historically rich churches in London, Poets’ Corner is said to be ‘a place of pilgrimage’ for all lovers of literature. It is the burial/rememberance place for over 100 poets and writers, amongst these the great Shakespeare, Austen, and Bronte sisters. There are a range of plaques and statues to commemorate these genusies, Geoffrey Chaucer the first amongst them to be buried here. Whatever your favourite author, you’ll be sure to find a plaque dedicated to him/her in this marvellous location. Speaking of plaques…
3. Blue Plaques
Scattered across different buildings in London are blue plaques, with the names of famous people/events on each one linked to a set location. Amongst these are the names of famous authors and novelists, such as Virginia Woolf, who moved into 29 Fitzroy Square in the Borough of Camden where she worked on her first novel, or Daphne du Maurier, most commonly known for penning ‘Rebecca’, who lived at 3 Well Road in Hamsptead. Here are some other cool plaques:
Slyvia Plath’s Plaque — 3 Chalcot Square, NW1 8YB
George Orwell’s Plaque — 50 Lawford Road, NW5 2LN
E.M. Forster’s — Arlington Park Mansions, Sutton Lane, W4 4HE
4. Cecil Court: WC2, City of Westminster
This is a secret alley hidden in the heart of London’s West End. Yes, you read that right: a secret alley known as Cecil Court (The Booksellers’ Row), an entire road dedicated to book shops, and antique and map stores! It’s a cosy street that reminds one of Diagon Alley, filled with a range of treasures waiting to be discovered, so be sure to stop by and pick up a gift for yourself or a loved one.
5. Waterstones Piccadilly: 203–206 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HD
As a dedicated book lover, you can’t miss the Waterstones in Piccadilly, which just so happens to not only be the biggest bookstore in London, but in the whole of Europe! Brace yourselves… this bookstore has a whopping total of EIGHT floors. That’s right. Eight. There won’t be a moment of boredom in here as you explore a variety of materials, ranging from novels to comic books to travel diaries to board games to stationary. Anything and everything that your literary heart desires. Be sure to stop by for a treat at the cafe on the Mezzanine floor, or the bar and restaurant on the fifth if you wish.
6. Word on Water Bookbarge: Regent’s Canal Towpath, London N1C 4LW
Bet you’ve never been to a bookstore floating on water before! Located on a canal barge, it’s an adorable little ship teeming with a variety of different novels. There are shelves to explore both on the outside and inside of the barge, and even big comfy chairs to sit in while you pick up a book of your choice. The roof welcomes musicians and poets for open mic sessions, and ocassionally for poetry slam and readings. Go for the experience, and the beautiful views of Regent’s Canal.
7. The Globe: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
This guide wouldn’t be complete without the mention of an absolute must-visit location, not only for fans of Shakespeare, but lovers of theatre, and simply for fans of having a good ol’ time. Nothing beats seeing an entertaining play with fellow friends and family in this magnificent rebuilt theatre. It’s a rule that you should go at least once in your life, so if you haven’t already, go on, get on with it!
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