If you’re thinking of treating a book lover this Christmas, why not support a local business?
Here in Edinburgh we are lucky to have a huge number of independent bookshops to browse – from radical shops to second hand and antiquarian specialists. It’s been a tough few years for small traders, so we’ve made a list of some of the best bookshops in the Capital.
You can also visit bookshop.org to support local businesses this festive season.

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The best Edinburgh bookshops to buy presents this Christmas (Google Streetview/Getty Images via Canva Pro) Photo: Google Maps

. Lighthouse Bookshop
Edinburgh’s radical bookshop, Lighthouse is a queer-owned and woman-led independent community shop in Nicolson Street. Nominated as Scotland’s best independent bookshop in 2020, this is the best place to get a gift for someone interested in Scottish politics, intersectional feminism, environmentalism, LGBT+ writing and more. Visit: lighthousebookshop.com Photo: Google

. Golden Hare Books
Described as a "charming independent bookshop with a wood-burning stove", Golden Hare can be found in St Stephen Street in Stockbridge. Here you can find passionate booksellers, a popular reading subscription service, and a free 48-hour ordering service. Visit goldenharebooks.com Photo: Google

9. The Portobello Bookshop
Based in the wonderful seaside town, The Portobello Bookshop has an "original and diverse" selection of fiction and non-fiction books alike. Staff are "passionate and experienced"’ booksellers and there is an extensive online store at: theportobellobookshop.com Photo: Google

10. Till's Bookshop
Till’s is one of Edinburgh’s oldest second hand bookshops. It sits in Hope Park Crescent, overlooking The Meadows, and boasts a large selection of literary fiction and the odd antiquarian gem. Sit by the cosy fire or strike up a bookish discussion with staff here. Visit: www.tillsbookshop.co.uk Photo: Google

11. Topping & Co.
Based in Blenheim Place, Toppings has a "mind-boggling" array of books of all shapes and sizes, but also offers signed copies and monthly book subscriptions for dedicated bibliophiles. The bookshop, which has sister shops in St Andrews and down south, also holds numerous events with authors. Visit: toppingbooks.co.uk Photo: Google