Hatchards – London's Historic Book Haven on Piccadilly
Discover London’s oldest bookshop, Hatchards, a historic literary landmark on Piccadilly with royal warrants and a treasure trove of books.
Hatchards, established in 1797 and located at 187 Piccadilly, is the oldest bookshop in the United Kingdom. Renowned for its rich history, royal warrants, and literary heritage, this iconic five-floor shop offers an extensive collection of new, rare, and signed books. With a grand interior featuring dark wood and a famous staircase, Hatchards remains a cherished destination for book lovers and cultural enthusiasts in central London.
A brief summary to Hatchards - Piccadilly
- 187 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9LE, GB
- +442074399921
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Explore all five floors to uncover a diverse range of books, from rare editions to new releases.
- Visit Oscar’s table on the ground floor, where Oscar Wilde signed his books, often hosting author signings today.
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter browsing experience and check the events calendar for literary signings.
- Though Hatchards has no café, nearby Piccadilly offers many excellent spots for coffee or a meal.
- Look for the three royal warrants above the entrance, symbolizing Hatchards’ royal patronage and prestige.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or Bakerloo lines to Piccadilly Circus station, approximately a 5-minute walk to Hatchards. Services run frequently throughout the day, with single fares around £2.50 using contactless payment.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop along Piccadilly, including routes 6, 9, 14, and 19. Buses run regularly with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment. The stop is a short walk from Hatchards.
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Walking
From nearby areas such as Regent Street or St James’s, walking to Hatchards offers a pleasant urban stroll of 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible for most visitors.
Hatchards - Piccadilly location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hatchards - Piccadilly
A Storied Legacy in the Heart of London
Founded by John Hatchard in 1797, Hatchards claims the title of the oldest bookshop in the United Kingdom. Originally situated at 173 Piccadilly, it moved a few doors down to its current address at 187 Piccadilly in 1801, where it has operated continuously ever since. The shop’s history is deeply intertwined with London’s literary and social fabric, having welcomed notable figures such as Oscar Wilde, who famously signed books at the ground floor table now named after him. Hatchard himself was an abolitionist and publisher for reformist causes, making the shop a hub for progressive thought in the 18th and 19th centuries.Architectural Charm and Atmosphere
Hatchards’ interior exudes classic elegance with its dark green facade and rich wood paneling across five floors. The grand staircase is a focal point, adorned with a portrait of founder John Hatchard, evoking a timeless ambiance. The shop’s layout invites visitors to explore a vast array of literary genres, from classic editions and biographies to the latest fiction and children’s books. Despite its historic character, Hatchards remains vibrant and welcoming, hosting frequent author signings and literary events that continue its tradition of engaging with contemporary culture.Royal Recognition and Literary Prestige
Hatchards holds three royal warrants, granted by King Charles III, Queen Elizabeth II, and Prince Philip, underscoring its status as a purveyor of quality and tradition. This prestigious recognition reflects the shop’s longstanding relationship with the British monarchy and its role as a cultural institution. The shop has been a favored destination for high-profile authors and celebrities, and it maintains a reputation for exceptional customer service and a carefully curated selection of rare and signed books.A Cultural Nexus and Community Hub
Beyond bookselling, Hatchards has historically served as a meeting place for societies and reform movements, including the Royal Horticultural Society’s inaugural meeting and anti-slavery campaigns led by William Wilberforce. Today, it remains a vibrant cultural venue, hosting events that draw literary enthusiasts from around the world. Its location on Piccadilly situates it amid London’s most prestigious shopping and cultural districts, neighboring landmarks like Fortnum & Mason and Burlington House.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Visitors can spend hours browsing Hatchards’ extensive collection spread over multiple floors, discovering everything from contemporary bestsellers to collectible editions. Though the shop does not have a café, numerous dining options are available nearby in Piccadilly. Hatchards is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 8:00pm and Sunday from 12:00pm to 6:00pm. The shop is easily accessible via Piccadilly Circus and Green Park underground stations, making it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists.Enduring Appeal in a Modern World
Despite changes in ownership and the rise of digital media, Hatchards has preserved its unique identity and charm. Now part of the Waterstones group, it operates with a degree of independence that honors its heritage. The shop’s blend of history, literary significance, and welcoming atmosphere ensures it remains a beloved landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about books and British culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St James's Piccadilly
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Beau Brummell Statue
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Burlington House
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3 Savile Row
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Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
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St James's Square
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Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
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225 Piccadilly Circus
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Piccadilly Circus
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Pickering Pl
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Ziggy Stardust album cover
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Republic of Texas Plaque
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Pall Mall
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Savile Row
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Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
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White Cube Mason's Yard
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The Red Lion, Mayfair
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Experience the charm of The Red Lion, a historic pub in Mayfair, London, offering classic British cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Masons Yard
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Christie's London
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The Criterion Theatre
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Piccadilly Theatre
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Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
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Golden Square
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The Royal Institution
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The London Pavillion
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Wonderville
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Ham Yard Hotel
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Picturehouse Central
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Comedy Carnival Leicester Square
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Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
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Francatelli
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Seven Park Place by William Drabble
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Kricket Soho
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Great British Restaurant
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NOPI
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Mele e Pere
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Bantof
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Wild Honey St James
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Bob Bob Ricard Soho
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Blacklock Soho
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Evelyn's Table
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HIDE
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sketch
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Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Burlington Arcade
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CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
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Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
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Machine-A
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M&M'S London
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JW Anderson London Soho
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Glassworks London - Soho
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Cool Britania
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Canvas Collection
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Liberty London
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Pop Up 38
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La Boutik
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Unique Britain
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Beyond Retro Soho
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Alice Through The Looking Glass
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Disrepute - Soho
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Disrepute - Cocktail Bar in Soho
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The Thin White Duke
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Duke of Argyll
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Cahoots London
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Below
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All Bar One Leicester Square
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Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
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Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
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The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
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Basement Sate
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The Black Book
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Bar Soho
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Henson's Bar and Social
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
