Brilliant Bookshops: Bert’s Books

Yesterday, I visited Bert’s Books in Swindon. Although I have been meaning to visit for a while, it was seeing the wonderful promotional film they shared on social media recently which prompted me into action. The trip was made even more special by being able to meet both Rachel Delahaye and Steve Antony there for a cuppa and a chat!

Open and inviting, the shop offers a lovely space for browsing and finding your next book-ish treat. The displays are calm and uncluttered, making it easy to explore the shelves and the bench seats under the windows make the perfect spot for considering your choices whilst enjoying a hot drink and piece of cake.

The children’s section is just as appealing and bursting with possibilities from picture books to longer reads. There is a whole wall of picture books, including titles by Rob Biddulph, who had been in for a signing at the weekend, and local author/illustrator, Steve Antony. The YA section is just outside this space, offering plenty of choice.

The shop has lots of lovely touches like the ‘pay it forward’ board which is full of pledges of money towards books for those who need it. A blackboard shows titles which the staff are currently reading and Michael and I were soon chatting about Agatha Christie places we have visited and books we have read. Wonderful to find a kindred spirit!

I was delighted that Rachel and Steve were able to come and meet me and we had a wonderful time. Lovely as ever, Steve brought one of his home grown butternut squashes along which soon took on a life of its own. I hope Rachel has resisted all temptation (including Steve’s delicious sounding recipe!) to actually cook the poor thing! It was lovely to be able to share some book recommendations with them.

Bert’s Books has all the elements a brilliant bookshop needs- a fabulous range of books, lovely staff, a welcoming atmosphere and delicious cakes! It’s just a shame I missed the dancers..!

Bert’s Books

54 Godwin Court, Swindon SN1 4BB