If you’re taking a holiday to picturesque West Wales, why not stop at some bookshops in Aberystwyth while you’re there? There are many independent shops, including a handful of Welsh language ones too.
National Library of Wales
There is something special about how Aberystwyth champions the arts – whether that be books, visual art or media in general. The town felt like a celebration of Welsh talent and the National Library of Wales was no exception. It exceeded our expectations the minute we stepped onto the hill outside, overlooking the sea, town houses and mountains.
Inside there’s a display from the National Eisteddfod – showing a replica of the library, which was made for the annual Welsh competition. There are also many nods to the Eisteddfod throughout, in the art selection and books. The windows in the building have a bookish theme, with colourful images of books covering the entire glass panes.
Like most libraries, there are many grand, regal floors leading to various rooms to study, read or browse the bookshelves. The security is strict so you need a pass to visit the main book selection but it’s free for all visitors which is great.
Upstairs, the main thing that stood out to me was the art exhibition. They have made a big deal to focus on Welsh artists and show how dismissive people have been in the past of Welsh art. If you enjoy art history books then this would be a good place to find a selection of non-fiction to take home with you too. This was the highlight of my trip so definitely try to fit in a visit if you get the chance. The rows of paintings showcasing Welsh lives, from past to present, were fascinating.
There’s also a bookshop on the ground floor, selling a range of books, art, tote bags and many other items that would make great gifts for a book lover in your life.
You can find more information about the library here.
Where?
Penglais Rd, Aberystwyth SY23 3BU
Bookshop by the Sea
Just like the name, this shop is a short walk from the beach. It’s a sensation that blew up on TikTok and for good reasons. As you walk in to the room, the cosy space has been filled with shelves of books, warm glowing lamps and cosy armchairs to relax and escape the outside world. Outside in the courtyard, you will find more books along with chairs and tables. The vintage setting is very welcoming.
Downstairs there are even more books to find. Walking along the stairs you will see neatly stacked books of all genres – including non-fiction. Once you reach the ground floor, there is another inviting armchair encompassed by shelves of old books looking for new homes. Downstairs is a lot more rustic but still a treasure trove for those looking for the perfect read.
At the store, you can buy new and used books as well as gift yourself a surprise blind date with a book that comes neatly wrapped in brown paper and a brief description written on the front.
The owner runs a book club. Also, you can enjoy some afternoon tea there, which is a unique idea. Find out more information here.
Where?
7 Market Street, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, Wales, UK
Llyfrau Ystwyth Books
One of the most welcoming and friendly bookshops I have visited is Yswtyth Books. The staff were friendly but not pushy and were delighted to speak Welsh when asked for Welsh book recommendations.
The shop has books everywhere from the floor to ceilings, covering a span of two floors. The books range from new releases to secondhand books. There are numerous Welsh and English language novels. They even had some translated classic fiction in the Welsh language – which is a rare find! The selection of books are brilliant, unique and there is something for everyone of all ages. They even have a range of special interest books – from earth sciences to natural history.
If you are looking for a particular item, it’s probably best you speak to a member of staff as the shelves aren’t clearly signposted. But I think a big part of the charm of this shop is the organised chaos. The staff seemed to know exactly where things were. It made the shopping experience quite fun. If you love browsing until you discover a book you never realised you needed, without being rushed, then this is the perfect shop for you.
You can find more information about this bookshop here.
Where?
7 Princess St, Aberystwyth SY23 1DX
Siop Inc
If you are seeking somewhere that celebrates the Welsh language through books, art and music then Siop Inc is the place to visit. It’s situated on the corner of a popular street, near cafes and shops. The store expands across one floor and is very bright, colourful and aesthetically pleasing.
They sell a range of items, not just books. These include illustrated greeting cards, mugs, CDs, magazines, newspapers, prints and more – all in the Welsh language. The books are curated onto the shelves, making it easy to find and browse what you are looking for. The shop displays brand new books including Welsh language children’s books and an array of adult books in various genres.
The celebration of Welsh art and artists is very noticeable upon entering the shop as they’re displayed around the room meticulously. Nothing is hidden away and it was very easy to find all the items needed.
The owner allowed us to browse freely, offering help when needed. If it is brand new books that you’re seeking, then this is the place to go.
You can find more details about the shop here.
Where?
13 Bridge Street, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 1PY
Gayberystwyth
Located in a trendy arcade, this small but wonderful LGBTQ+ friendly bookshop has a wide selection of books. This includes young adult novels, self-help, a range of poetry collections, art, and Welsh language books.
The colourful, brightly painted blue shop has plenty of other items to purchase too. From tarot cards, games, book themed annual calendars, games and more. The store felt very friendly and welcoming. It’s in the perfect location as nearby, inside the market, you will find a music shop and a bakery.
Every quarterly month, Gayberystwyth hosts book talks and signings with queer authors. At the event the author will read from their work and the shop will conduct a Q&A with the audience.
The bookshop prides itself on being a safe space for all. They offer a period dignity scheme – helping people have free access to menstruation products, as well as a chest binder scheme for trans and non-binary people. I adored this bookshop and would recommend a visit.
You can find out more about this shop here.
Where?
Unit 8, Market Hall, Great Darkgate St, Aberystwyth SY23 1DW
Have you visited any of these bookshops? Let me know in the comments below.
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bookworm girl 
Lovely!
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Would definitely recommend 😊
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