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8 Cozy Stays in the UK for Book Lovers

Make your trip unforgettable with these UK stays built around books, comfort, and peaceful reading corners.

The UK has always been a favorite destination for those who like literary getaways. With its legendary authors like Shakespeare and historic libraries, you can understand why so many enthusiastic readers feel drawn to the country.

But some want to take things a step further and bring that bookish atmosphere into their hotel stay. The UK makes this easy with a range of literary-themed accommodation options.

If you’re a book lover planning a trip to the UK and need a place to stay, be sure to check out these properties when booking.

Limehouse Library Hotel, London

Photo Credit: Limehouse Library Hotel London

There are many incredible scientists, authors, and philosophers who’ve left their mark on the world, and the Limehouse Library Hotel in London makes sure they get the recognition they deserve. All 75 of their rooms are named after major historical figures, from Jane Austen to George Orwell.

Photo Credit: Limehouse Library Hotel London

These aren’t just standard hotel spaces. They’re crafted with intention and detail to honor the icons they represent. You can choose from superior double rooms, deluxe king options, deluxe suites, and spacious duplex suites.

Address: Limehouse Library, 638 Commercial Rd, London E14 7HS, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

Neidpath Castle Cottage, Peebles

Photo Credit: Neidpath Castle

Once the home of Scottish aristocrats, Neidpath Castle and its cottages in Peebles, Scotland, hold a timeless history that carries into the present. Those who visit will be spoiled with a stay surrounded by Scottish nature and accommodation options designed with readers in mind.

Barn’s Library is the room option to keep an eye out for. It’s a real retreat, with a four-poster bed and a wood-burning stove that keeps the space nice and toasty for when you settle in with a few books from the dedicated selection provided for guests.

Address: Neidpath Castle, Peebles EH45 8NW, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM – 12AM
– Check-out time: 11AM

Hypatia Apartment, Penzance

Photo Credit: Airbnb

The Hypatia Trust in Penzance is a fantastic organization that publishes materials celebrating women’s accomplishments. You won’t find many bookstores like this in this part of the UK, which makes their commitment to celebrating women even more impressive.

Photo Credit: The Hypatia Trust

At their site in Penzance, they offer a homely, spacious two-bedroom apartment with a kitchen, patio, and plush couches, available for traveling literary enthusiasts. It’s also dog-friendly, and the profits support the charity.

Address: Lower Ground Floor, The Regent, 54 Chapel St, Penzance TR18 4AE, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM – 9PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

The Studio and Hut, Georgeham

Photo Credit: Kip Hideaways

It was famed author Henry Williamson who first owned the site where the Studio and Hut stand today. The writer behind works such as Tarka the Otter left a clear imprint on this property in Georgeham, with his original author’s hut still standing firmly in the garden.

The Studio and Hut have the charm of a secluded cabin in the woods, completely removed from everyday life. Small details such as a dedicated reading area and a selection of books, including some by Williamson himself, bring the entire setting together.

Address: EX33, Georgeham, Croyde, Braunton EX33 1JN, United Kingdom 
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 3PM
– Check-out time: 10PM

University Arms Hotel, Cambridge

Photo Credit: University Arms Hotel

The University Arms Hotel is a true literary getaway in Cambridge that’s guaranteed to appeal to admirers of the written word. The experience begins in the library, where shelves filled with books line the walls and readers gather in the center to discuss their favorite titles. 

Each room follows the book-inspired theme as well, with some featuring designated bookshelves that divide the space, luxury bedding, and marble bathrooms that add a lavish touch. Guests will also be treated to a wealth of extras, including a literature-focused themed afternoon tea and a book butler service that delivers new reads to your room if the selection provided doesn’t suit your style.

Address: 52-42 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM
– Check-out time: 12PM

Tigharry Schoolhouse, Outer Hebrides

Photo Credit: Tigharry Schoolhouse

A former school dating back to the 19th century, Tigharry Schoolhouse in the Outer Hebrides is a paradise for anyone with an affinity for books. Why? It has a library of up to 1,000 texts, all neatly arranged to create an eye-catching display and plenty for guests to dive into.

Photo Credit: Tigharry Schoolhouse

When you’re not flicking through the collection, which covers topics like travel, science, design, and more, you’ll likely be relaxing in the Scandinavian-themed communal spaces. These come complete with pendant lighting, grooved walls, and a wood burner.

Address: Tigharry Schoolhouse, Isle of North Uist, Outer Hebrides HS6 5DE, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

Gladstone’s Library, Deeside

Photo Credit: Jason Fair (Nomadic Nerd Project)

How does spending a night in the only prime ministerial library in all of the UK sound? That’s what you have the opportunity to do at Gladstone’s Library at Deeside. With 26 clean, modern rooms on site, readers can stay over and make use of all the library’s facilities, including the reading and theology rooms and communal lounges.

Photo Credit: Sam Warrenger

In Gladstone’s Library, there’s a wealth of items waiting to be discovered, such as a collection belonging to Gladstone himself. Even though the building dates back to 1902, it’s a spectacular sight to behold with its dark wooden beams, imposing arches, and cozy reading corners. Plus, the money earned from bookings goes directly towards maintaining the site, so you know it’s being put to good use.

Address: Church Lane, Hawarden, Flintshire CH5 3DF, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 2PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

The Boatman’s Reading Rooms, Deal

The Boatman’s Reading Rooms were originally created as a refuge for sailors working in the area. Today, it’s a calm and refreshing escape with impressive views of the English Channel, giving bookworms a quiet place to unwind for a few nights in Kent.

Photo Credit: Planet of Hotels

Several thoughtful details make the Boatman’s Reading Rooms stand out, including a library set aside for visitors and a few pieces honouring the great Charles Dickens himself.

Address: 23 The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DX, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
– Check-in time: 4PM – 10PM
– Check-out time: 10AM

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