Leicester’s Best Bookshops for Students

Exam season is finally over, and it’s the perfect time to dive into some leisurely reading. If you’re studying in Leicester, you’re in luck – our city is home to some fantastic bookshops. Whether you’re living in Leicester One, The Oval, Hops House, or The Button Factory, there’s a nearby bookshop waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into the best bookshops in Leicester and how close they are to your student accommodation!

Leicester One – The Works (4 minutes)

For students at Leicester One, The Works is just a 4-minute walk away from your Leicester student studio flat. Located on Gallowtree Gate, The Works offers a small selection of popular books at unbeatable prices. This shop is perfect for students on a budget, with frequent deals on paperbacks and, if you’re feeling creative, you can pick up a variety of stationary and craft supplies. After picking up your next favourite read, why not relax in the chill lounge at Leicester One and dive into your new book?

The Oval – Waterstones (20 minutes)

Living at The Oval? A 20-minute walk will bring you to Waterstones, located in a prime spot on the high street. Waterstones boasts floors filled with books from every genre imaginable. The friendly staff are always ready to help you find exactly what you’re looking for, plus the store often hosts author events. Once you’ve found your new book, head back to The Oval, sink into your memory foam mattress, and escape into a literary world.

Hops House – Clarendon Books (15 minutes)

Students at Hops House can take a quick 15-minute walk to Clarendon Books. This charming bookshop specialises in secondhand and antiquarian books, with a strong emphasis on history, literature, and philosophy. It’s a treasure trove for classic book lovers, professors and students who have been crossing the park from the University of Leicester Campus to Clarendon Books for the last 40 years. If you don’t find the book you’re looking for or want to save some money, remember that the library is just a 21-minute walk away from your student accommodation!

The Button Factory – Maynard & Bradley Bookshop & Gallery and Fox Books (7 minutes)

If you’re staying at The Button Factory, you’re in for a treat. Just a 7-minute walk will take you to Maynard & Bradley Bookshop & Gallery, a Leicester treasure trove filled with a variety of books and art pieces. This shop is a delight for those interested in history, geography, music, and art. Right opposite Maynard & Bradley is the secret indie bookshop, Fox Books, known for its quirky reads and global bestsellers. Fox Books also has a popup upstairs in “Just Fair Trade,” offering books at great prices. After your bookshop adventure, relax in The Button Factory’s chill lounge with your new finds.

Why Visit These Bookshops?

Though online shopping might be convenient, nothing beats the experience of browsing through a bookshop. These local bookshops offer a unique and homely experience, allowing you to discover new stories and authors. Plus, visiting a bookshop is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of student life.

So, whether you’re looking to unwind after exams or simply want to explore new literary worlds, Leicester’s bookshops have something for everyone. Happy reading!