The capital city has a pretty impressive bookshop offering – but one that’s really making a splash on London’s literary scene is Word on the Water, London’s only floating bookshop. Having been happily bobbing along on Regent’s Canal since 2011, Word on the Water is just like one of those pirate ships of old. But instead of being crammed with gold coins and gleaming jewels; this boat is carrying a different type of treasure: a whole load of books.
Word on the Water stocks a huge collection of new and used books, filling every nook and cranny with things to read. You can browse the shelves outside, or head inside for stacks of books on a huge range of subjects. And let’s face it – nothing will make you feel more like a main character than climbing on board a 1920s barge to discover the perfect book to bury your nose in.
Credit: @word.on.the.water via Instagram
It’s had close shaves with the usual problems facing bookshops – online retailers and Netflix-shaped distractions, to name a few – but Word on the Water has (luckily for literary-lovers of London) overcome every challenge that’s been sent its way. Even the more unique ones. For example, before they secured a permanent mooring, they were forced to move each fortnight by canal authorities. (Not exactly a problem that Waterstones has to face). More dramatically, the barge nearly sank some years ago after the interior flooded. Thankfully, the vessel nicknamed ‘The London Bookbarge’ has dropped anchor for the foreseeable future. Phew.
Beyond the books at Word on the Water
Whilst books are, of course, the main attraction; you’ll find plenty of other things to entertain you here. Word on the Water runs talks on engaging topics such as politics, art, feminism, and technology. Meanwhile, the barge’s roof welcomes musicians and performers for open mic sessions, as well as the occasional reading or poetry slam. On a gorgeous summery evening (remember those?), there are few better places to be. And then in the winter, well, it’s known to look just like this!
Credit: @word.on.the.water via Instagram
Coal Drops Yard is handily placed right next door, so you can pair that book-perusing with a wander through the shops and a bite to eat. What more could you ask for, hey?