Daunt Books, Marylebone, established in 1912, is a celebrated independent bookshop renowned for its unique interiors and travel-centric collection. Founded by bookseller James Daunt, it occupies an Edwardian building originally designed as a bookshop by architect W. H. Wigglesworth. The shop features long oak galleries, graceful skylights, and decorative windows, creating an atmosphere that beckons bibliophiles and wanderers alike.
What sets Daunt Books apart is its focus on travel literature. Books are arranged by country, rather than genre or author, with travel guides, non-fiction, and fiction strategically placed together. This distinctive approach allows readers to seamlessly explore the culture, history, and stories of different places around the world in one seamless experience.
The Edwardian allure of the shop is palpable, with polished wooden floors and high ceilings adding a historic charm. The gallery-like setting features gracefully arched skylights that flood the room with natural light, offering an ethereal browsing experience that is both peaceful and academically stimulating.
Beyond its role as a retail space, Daunt Books Marylebone is also a hub for literary events and book launches. It hosts numerous author talks and signings, drawing the literary community as well as visitors eager to meet their favorite writers. This commitment to fostering literary culture establishes Daunt Books as a cornerstone of intellectual life in London.
Interesting to note, Daunt Books caught global attention when it was featured as a filming location in the movie "One Day" (2011), starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess. Its cinematic appearance only enhanced its reputation as a charming and quintessentially London literary landmark.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
Take a moment to admire the architecture of Daunt Books before you step inside. The Edwardian design is quite stunning, with its iconic skylights and wooden galleries. It's not just any bookshop—it's a piece of history!
When you enter, head straight to the travel section to experience the magic of how the books are organized. Seeing travel guides shelved with fiction and non-fiction by country creates an entertaining exploration of literature and geography.
Check out the events schedule on their website or in-store. If you can catch an author talk or book signing, it adds an extra dimension to your visit and might let you discover new works before anyone else.
Look for the spot featured in the film "One Day" within the shop. It's always fun to trace the footsteps of a movie, and this particular film really captures the charm of this bookshop.
If you're visiting in the colder months, relish the cozy atmosphere. Snug corners and warm wooden interiors make it feel especially inviting when it's chilly outside.
Visiting Times & Costs:
Opening Hours: Daunt Books, Marylebone is generally open to the public seven days a week. Typical opening hours are:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
It's advisable to check for any changes to these hours during holidays or special occasions.
Admission Cost: Entry to Daunt Books, Marylebone is free of charge. Visitors are welcome to browse the collection without any obligation to purchase.
Accessibility: The shop has made efforts to be accessible, but please note that there are a few steps in certain areas due to the building's historical design. It's recommended to contact the shop in advance if there are specific accessibility concerns to ensure a comfortable visit.
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