People's Bookshop Durham: A Radical Haven for Second-Hand Books
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
Nestled in the heart of Durham at 70 Saddler Street, People's Bookshop Durham is an independent, volunteer-run radical bookshop specializing in second-hand books. Established in 2011, it serves as a vibrant community hub, offering an eclectic mix of titles that reflect local history, culture, and progressive causes. The shop champions the preservation of physical books in an increasingly digital world, fostering a unique literary atmosphere in a historic university city.
A brief summary to People's Bookshop Durham
- 70 Saddler St, Saddlers Yard, Durham, DH1 3NP, GB
- +441913844399
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-3 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
- Friday 12 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons or Saturdays for the fullest browsing experience, as opening hours are limited.
- Explore beyond bestsellers to find unique local history and radical literature reflecting Durham’s community.
- Engage with the volunteers to learn about the shop’s community projects and upcoming events.
- Bring cash as some purchases may be easier to complete this way, supporting the shop’s grassroots operation.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
People's Bookshop Durham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about People's Bookshop Durham
A Community-Driven Radical Bookshop
People's Bookshop Durham opened its doors in 2011 as a volunteer-run, charitable community benefit society. It is more than just a retail space; it is a cultural and social hub that reflects the values and stories of Durham's diverse community. The shop is dedicated to providing a platform for radical ideas and voices often overlooked by mainstream bookstores, emphasizing the importance of literature as a tool for social change and education.Eclectic Collection of Second-Hand Treasures
Specializing in second-hand books, People's Bookshop Durham offers an extensive and eclectic selection spanning many genres and periods. The shop deliberately avoids bestsellers and mainstream titles, instead focusing on pre-loved books that carry unique histories and narratives. Visitors can discover local history, folk stories, personal accounts, and works that document Durham’s industrial past, including the rise and fall of coal pits. This curated collection invites readers to explore forgotten knowledge and diverse perspectives.Atmosphere and Location
Situated on Saddlers Yard, just off Durham’s bustling Saddler Street, the bookshop provides a quiet retreat from the city’s busy streets. The interior is cozy and inviting, filled with shelves crammed with books waiting to be explored. The shop’s radical ethos is palpable in its welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy the tactile pleasure of browsing physical books in a world increasingly dominated by digital media.Supporting a Better World Through Books
The People's Bookshop is committed to supporting causes that align with its vision of social justice and community empowerment. Beyond selling books, it acts as a platform for local voices and progressive ideas, fostering dialogue and awareness. The shop’s volunteer-run model and charitable status underline its dedication to creating a sustainable, community-focused space that enriches Durham’s cultural landscape.Visitor Experience and Engagement
Visitors to People's Bookshop Durham often find it a treasure trove of unexpected discoveries. The shop encourages leisurely browsing and thoughtful engagement with literature that challenges, inspires, and informs. It also serves as a gathering place for like-minded individuals interested in activism, history, and literature, making it a unique cultural landmark within Durham.Operating Hours and Practical Details
The bookshop maintains a schedule that accommodates the local community, generally open from mid-morning to late afternoon on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly reduced hours on Mondays. This schedule supports its volunteer-run nature and community focus, inviting visitors to plan their visits accordingly to experience its full offerings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market place
0.1 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.1 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.2 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.4 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
0.6 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Viaduct
0.6 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
0.6 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Band Stand
0.8 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Obelisk
0.9 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.0 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.2 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Ludworth Tower
8.2 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.4 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.4 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Escape Rooms Durham
0.1 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Durham Market Hall
0.1 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The Vintage Shop
0.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
The House of Eden
0.1 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.1 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
Durham Castle
0.1 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
Indoor Market
0.1 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Elvet Bridge
0.1 km
A medieval stone arch bridge over the River Wear, now a lively pedestrian walkway with cafes, restaurants and stunning views of Durham Cathedral and the city’s dramatic river gorge.
Department of History • Durham University
0.2 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Palace Green
0.2 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
Revolution Durham
0.2 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Palace Green Library
0.2 km
Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.2 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Riverwalk
0.2 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Essential places to dine
La Spaghettata
0.0 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.0 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
Tapas Factory
0.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.0 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Tango Durham
0.1 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Flat White Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurant 17
0.1 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Uno Momento
0.1 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Zizzi - Durham
0.1 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.1 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Spice Lounge
0.1 km
Award-winning Indian cuisine with authentic homestyle curries in Durham’s charming Market Place.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
People's Bookshop Durham
0.0 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.0 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
The Boathouse
0.0 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.0 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Waceland Durham
0.0 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.0 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
The Mugwump
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.1 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Elvet & Bailey
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Oxfam Shop
0.1 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.1 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
WHSmith
0.1 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
The Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blue Eye
0.0 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.0 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Osbournes
0.1 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Library
0.1 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.2 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Drunken Duck
0.2 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Half Moon Inn
0.2 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Champagne Bar
0.2 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
The Fighting Cocks
0.2 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
The Three Bridges
0.3 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Babylon Durham
0.4 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Holy GrAle
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fabio's Bar
0.0 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
0.1 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
0.1 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Bohemia Durham
0.2 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
0.3 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.6 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
21.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.6 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.6 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.7 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
21.7 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly