Scrivener’s Books: A Fascinating Book Shop in Buxton with Around 40,000 Books

Tucked away in Buxton is a place that feels like stepping into a treasure trove for book lovers. Scrivener’s Books & Bookbinding is no ordinary bookshop in Buxton – it’s a fascinating world of literature, history and discovery spread across five floors and around 40,000 books.

Opened in 1997 by Alastair Scrivener, the shop has become a much-loved destination for readers, collectors and curious browsers alike. The majority of books here are second-hand and reasonably priced, meaning there’s every chance you’ll stumble across a hidden gem or bargain as you explore.

Five Floors of Literary Discovery

Housed in a wonderfully quirky historic building, Scrivener’s is a book shop in Buxton unlike any other. Spread across five floors, the shop is full of nooks, crannies and unexpected corners, making it a joy to explore.

You’ll find titles on architecture, science, politics, science fiction, crime, local history, maps, travel, military history, fashion and design, sociology, astronomy, photography, mythology and much more.

Chairs are dotted throughout the shop, inviting visitors to pause, sit down and lose themselves in a book before deciding whether to take it home.

Accessibility: The entrance has a step and there are steep staircases inside; the shop is not wheelchair accessible.

A Guardian Selection

In 2009, The Guardian included Scrivener’s in its selection of ten second-hand bookshops.

While the shop specialises in second-hand books, it also supports local authors, stocking a small selection of new non-fiction titles about the local area, along with some new fiction including crime and children’s books.

Antique Books and Collectors’ Finds

For collectors and bibliophiles, Scrivener’s also holds a carefully curated selection of antique and rare books, many of which are displayed in a cabinet on the ground floor. These historic volumes offer a glimpse into publishing history and are always worth a closer look.

A Haven for Young Readers

Scrivener’s also has a well-stocked children’s section, filled with books for all ages – from beloved classics to modern favourites. Alongside the books, there’s also a selection of games, making it a fun, relaxing space for younger visitors.

In 2025 the shop advertised free term-time story sessions for pre-school children. Call 01298 73100 to check current dates and times.

Bookbinding and Restoration

Adding another layer of character to the shop is the presence of bookbinders Holly and Janet, who are based within the building.

Working from their workshop on site, they offer professional bookbinding and restoration services, helping to preserve treasured books and bring damaged volumes back to life.

For bookbinding and restoration enquiries, call 01298 73100 Monday–Friday after 11am and ask for Holly or Janet.

More Than Just Books

Alongside its vast collection of books, Scrivener’s also sells cards, wrapping paper and book-themed gifts, including tote bags, mugs, tea towels and purses – perfect for literature lovers.

During the Buxton Festival Fringe, Scrivener’s transforms into a performance venue, hosting a range of events and performances as part of the festival programme. The shop also regularly hosts meet-the-author events.

Don’t Miss the Cellar Museum!

Before you leave, make sure to head downstairs. Hidden in the cellar is a delightful surprise – a tiny Victorian museum, complete with the building’s original range cooker and, of course, even more books to browse.

A Place to Get Lost in Books

Whether you’re searching for a rare title, browsing for a bargain, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a traditional bookshop, Scrivener’s is the kind of place where time seems to slow down. With thousands of books to explore across multiple floors, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves the magic of books.

Bookshop interior with bookshelves and a counter Bookshop subject guide beside the counter and bookshelves Postcards, bookshelves and a greeting-card rack by a window Turquoise staircase beside bookshelves and framed pictures Children’s reading room with bookshelves, toys and chairsChildren’s reading room with bookshelves, chairs and a play table Children’s bookshelves beneath a Story Time banner Children’s bookshelves beside an armchair and toy tiger Children’s table with books, games and a bear-shaped chair Children’s books displayed beside a window Bookshelves around a fireplace with a clock on the mantel Bookshelves and blue armchair beneath an attic skylight Bookshelves in an attic room beneath a skylight Science fiction books stacked on a shelf Bookshop postcards and bookmarks in a wooden box Illustrated cards on a rack beside a staircase Bookshelves and a table of books in an attic room Illustrated greeting cards on a wooden rack beside stairs Model of the Scrivener’s bookshop building Cards with illustrations of mice clipped to strings Old books displayed in a glass-fronted cabinet Close-up of old books in front of a bookcase Bookshelves and tote bags by a shop windowAgatha Christie novels displayed on wooden shelves Red chair surrounded by shelves of books Children’s books and colourful toys by a window Illustrated cards showing buildings and landscapes Book-themed gifts displayed on a shop counter Posters and greeting cards displayed beside a staircase Art and craft books displayed in an attic bookshop Illustrated concertina card showing the bookshop Gift wrap and tote bags displayed in front of bookshelves Colourful bookmarks in a charity donation display Book-themed mugs, bags and an illustrated card on a shelf Bookshop floor guide beside a display of novels Exterior of Scrivener’s bookshop on a street corner