Brilliant Bookshops: Stanfords, Bristol

In 1853, Edward Stanford became the sole owner of what became ‘the largest, and indeed only map maker and seller in London at a time when British colonialism, the rise of the railways and the continuing popularity of the Grand Tour, meant demand for readily accessible, high quality cartography was building at remarkable pace.’ In 1997, Bristol became home to its first store outside of London and it is still there today, close to the quirky stalls and delicious food of St Nicholas Market. And what a lovely shop it is!

Attractive window displays appeal to passers by and once inside, this attention to creative details continues as the wall to the basement is covered in a huge map of Bristol. Colourful models of hot air balloons hang in front of this, a reminder of Bristol’s Balloon Festival.

Although Stanford’s boasts of being the world’s largest travel and map store, it also has a very tempting children’s section which offers a wide range of both fiction and non-fiction for all ages in a spacious and attractive setting towards the back of the shop. Recently, I attended an author event here, surrounded by a wealth of reading delights for all ages, temptingly displayed.

They also have a rather lovely stationery section- a real issue for a notebook addict like myself! This is a bookshop with beautiful displays, a calm atmosphere and a wonderful selection of books- what more could you want! Well worth a visit!

Stanfords

29 Corn St, Bristol BS1 1HT