For book lovers, there is no greater joy than stepping into a bookshop filled with stories waiting to be discovered. Since its founding in 1982, Waterstones has been a pillar of British bookselling, offering not just a vast selection of books but a space where readers, authors, and literary culture come together in a shared passion for storytelling.With over 290 locations across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, Waterstones is more than just a bookshop—it is a literary haven, dedicated to keeping books at the heart of cultural conversation.
A Rich Legacy of Bookselling
Waterstones began with a vision to transform the bookselling landscape, making bookshops dynamic, engaging spaces rather than just retail stores. This commitment to books, authors, and the power of reading has allowed Waterstones to not only survive the digital age but thrive in it, standing strong against online giants and the eReader revolution.
Today, Waterstones continues to champion both new and classic literature, bringing the very best books to readers through its carefully curated selections, expert booksellers, and iconic author events.
The Magic of a Waterstones Bookshop
Every Waterstones location is designed to celebrate literature in its own unique way. From the breathtaking Waterstones Bradford Wool Exchange—a stunning bookshop housed in a historic building—to intimate neighborhood branches, each shop is a reflection of the community it serves.
Visitors to Waterstones can expect: ✔ A diverse and curated selection of books, from bestselling fiction to niche non-fiction.
✔ Expert booksellers passionate about helping readers find their next great read.
✔ Exclusive author events and signings that bring readers closer to the writers they admire.
✔ A cozy Café W experience in select stores, where book lovers can enjoy coffee and conversation.
Supporting New and Established Writers
Beyond selling books, Waterstones takes an active role in championing authors, ensuring their works reach the widest audience possible. Through initiatives like:
- The Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize – Showcasing emerging literary talent and bringing exciting new voices into the spotlight.
- The Waterstones Children’s Book Prize – Celebrating the best in children’s literature and helping young readers discover their next favorite book.
- The Waterstones Book of the Year – Honoring the books that have made the biggest impact, chosen by booksellers for their literary excellence.
These efforts ensure that both new and established writers continue to find a dedicated audience through Waterstones.
More Than Just Books
While books are at the core of Waterstones, the experience doesn’t stop there. The bookshop also offers a thoughtfully selected range of: ✔ Gifts and stationery, perfect for thoughtful presents.
✔ Board games and puzzles, reflecting the growing passion for tabletop gaming.
✔ Plush toys and literary merchandise, bringing beloved stories to life.
Bringing Books and Readers Together, Online and In-Store
Waterstones extends its love for books beyond its physical stores, with Waterstones.com offering an online shopping experience that mirrors the expertise and passion found in its shops. Readers can browse and purchase books while benefiting from the same level of curation and recommendation that they would receive from an in-store bookseller.
Additionally, the Waterstones Plus rewards programme allows book lovers to earn as they read, making each purchase even more rewarding.
Discover the Joy of Waterstones
Whether you’re visiting a majestic flagship store or exploring books online, Waterstones remains a beloved sanctuary for readers. More than just a bookshop, it is a place where literature is celebrated, authors are championed, and readers are always welcome.