For a bookshop with history and atmosphere head to Hatchards at 187 Piccadilly, next to Fortnum and Mason and opposite the Royal Academy. It was established in 1797 and is the oldest surviving bookshop in London. Previous customers include some of Britain’s famous political, social and literary figures such as Benjamin Disraeli, Rudyard Kipling, Oscar Wilde and Lord Byron.
It is made up of several small rooms, with an elegant wooden staircase connecting the floors (there’s a lift too if you need it). The rooms are decorated with paintings and sculptures, often related to the books in that section, creating a welcoming and helpful atmosphere. Add to that, friendly and knowledgeable staff and you have a great bookshop.
If you are a visitor to London, it has a comprehensive selection of London guides and associated travel writing.
If you have children with you, there is an excellent children’s section, including London-themed fiction, well known British authors, beautiful picture books and more.
Hatchards also have a nice website, where you can browse their recommendations of the month (VIP books as they call them) and other recommendations by category. You can order books online and give payment details either online or by phone.
A great bookshop with great service.
Hatchards, 187 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9LE
Telephone: 020 7439 9921
Web: www.hatchards.co.uk
For a nearby cafe see A bite to eat in Burlington Arcade and another bookstore see Russian bookstore in London.
Linked to Travel Photo Monday.
Travel with Intent 
I have tried phoning the number shown, but with no reply.
I should like to ask a very urgent historical question re Hatchards in the 40’s. My mother who has just died, worked at Hatchards in the 40’s under a very famous manager (who I think was perhaps a Mr Jolly(?) with whom she was in contact with for a while since, and of whom she spoke very affectionately. I need to confirm that for her eulogy, which I need to supply information this evening . Unfortunately I have not been able to find anything relevant (so far) on the web! Please can you supply confirmation & his full name? Thank you.
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I’m afraid I cannot help as O have no connection with Hatchards. I am simply a customer. I sincerely hope you receive information from the bookshop.
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Wow, what an excellent book store, I could enjoy that place for a long time. Thanks for sharing and have a fantastic travel New Year for 2014
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I love historic bookshops. I can stay old day long browsing here. Its great to know that an old bookstore such as this is still standing strong. I’m so saddened by the closure of many bookshops in my city.
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I can never resist the lure of a good bookshop. Mr B’s in Bath is lovely with great service and a novel approach (no pun intended!) approach to book selling
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I will check it out when I’m next in the area. Thanks for the tip.
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The storefront is gorgeous, what a great old building. I could spend hours in there, no doubt. I hope to visit London someday (I’m in US). Thanks for sharing – Dawn @ WeCallItJunkin.com
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You must come! Hopefully this shop will be there for many a year yet, so you have time! Thanks for visiting and happy New Year!
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Looks like a lovely place to visit given that bookstores are fading in many cities.
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Just like Florish and Blotts!
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