Books-on-Sea
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
Books-on-Sea is a charming independent bookshop located on Alexandra Street in Southend-on-Sea, specializing in rare and secondhand books alongside carefully selected new titles. This intimate shop serves as a haven for book collectors, literary enthusiasts, and casual readers seeking unique finds and personalized service. With its curated selection spanning multiple genres and categories, Books-on-Sea combines the thrill of discovery with the warmth of a community-focused retail space.
A brief summary to Books-on-Sea
- 23 Alexandra St, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1BX, GB
- +441702826730
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Call ahead before visiting, as opening hours vary throughout the week and the shop may close unexpectedly. Tuesday and Wednesday have shorter hours (10:00–14:00) compared to Thursday and Friday (10:00–16:00).
- Arrive with an open mind and patience—the appeal of secondhand and rare bookshops lies in the hunt. Spend time browsing rather than rushing; unexpected discoveries are part of the experience.
- If searching for a specific rare or out-of-print title, contact the shop directly by phone to inquire about availability or request a search. Staff expertise can save time and help locate elusive volumes.
- Visit on Saturday mornings for the best selection and a more relaxed browsing atmosphere before the shop reaches peak capacity later in the day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Books-on-Sea location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Books-on-Sea
A Treasure Trove of Literary Discoveries
Books-on-Sea occupies a distinctive niche in Southend-on-Sea's retail landscape as a specialist bookshop dedicated to rare and secondhand volumes. Located on Alexandra Street in the town centre, the shop has established itself as a destination for those seeking literary gems beyond the mainstream. The carefully curated inventory reflects a commitment to quality over quantity, with each section thoughtfully organized to help visitors navigate the diverse collection. Whether you're hunting for a long-lost classic, a rare first edition, or an unexpected literary treasure, the shop's knowledgeable approach to stock selection ensures there's genuine discovery potential with every visit.Community and Connection Through Books
Beyond its role as a retail space, Books-on-Sea functions as a gathering point for Southend-on-Sea's reading community. The shop attracts a diverse clientele—from serious collectors and academics to casual browsers and gift-seekers—creating an environment where book lovers naturally congregate. Staff members demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for literature and take pride in helping customers find exactly what they're looking for, whether that's a specific title or a recommendation based on reading preferences. This personal touch transforms a simple shopping experience into a meaningful interaction, fostering the kind of connections that make independent bookshops irreplaceable in an increasingly digital world.Rare and Secondhand Specialization
The shop's focus on rare and secondhand books sets it apart from chain retailers and online marketplaces. This specialization appeals to collectors seeking out-of-print editions, vintage copies with character and history, and books that carry stories beyond their printed pages. The secondhand inventory offers exceptional value for budget-conscious readers while the rare book section caters to serious collectors and those seeking investment-grade volumes. This dual approach ensures the shop serves multiple market segments while maintaining a cohesive identity rooted in literary passion rather than commercial trends.Accessible Location and Practical Convenience
Situated at 23 Alexandra Street, Books-on-Sea benefits from a central position within Southend-on-Sea's shopping district, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The shop's modest footprint belies its carefully maximized use of space, with thoughtful shelving and organization that allows browsers to explore comfortably despite the compact layout. Operating hours accommodate both weekday shoppers and weekend visitors, with extended Saturday hours for those with busier schedules. The location's accessibility via public transport and proximity to other town centre amenities makes a visit to Books-on-Sea a natural addition to a broader Southend-on-Sea shopping or cultural outing.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
2.1 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Laindon War Memorial
20.5 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
24.2 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Barnards Miniature Railway
24.8 km
Discover the magic of model trains at Barnards Miniature Railway, a charming attraction in Brentwood offering fun for all ages amidst beautiful landscapes.
Tilbury Fort
25.2 km
Discover the historical significance of Tilbury Fort, a well-preserved fortress along the River Thames, showcasing Britain's military heritage.
Ingatestone Hall
26.3 km
Experience the grandeur of Ingatestone Hall, a historic Tudor mansion offering a glimpse into England's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
27.1 km
Explore the historic St Mary Magdalene Church in Cobham, a serene landmark with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
Hylands House
27.3 km
Explore the historic Hylands House, a stunning landmark in Chelmsford, surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for all visitors.
Falklands Island Monument
27.7 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Chelmsford Cathedral
27.8 km
A serene 11th-century cathedral in the city centre offering free entry, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural events.
Mountnessing Windmill
28.1 km
Explore the unique charm of Mountnessing Windmill, a historic attraction offering captivating views and a glimpse into England's milling heritage.
Mersea Island Museum
30.0 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Mersea Island at the captivating Mersea Island Museum, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Upside Down House – Lakeside
30.1 km
Discover the Upside Down House in Lakeside, a whimsical amusement park attraction that turns reality on its head for a fun-filled day of exploration and laughter.
The Tiptree Jam Museum
30.3 km
Explore the delightful world of jam-making in Tiptree at the fascinating Tiptree Jam Museum, a sweet adventure for all visitors.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
30.4 km
Explore Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, a nurturing haven for rescued animals and a must-visit for nature-loving tourists seeking compassion and education.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rocket01 street art mural
0.1 km
A vibrant, large-scale street art mural by Rocket01 that energizes Southend-on-Sea with bold colors and urban creativity.
The Royals Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant shopping hub at Southend-on-Sea’s High Street southern end, blending retail variety with coastal charm and visitor-friendly amenities.
The Shrubbery
0.2 km
A historic cliffside garden in Southend-on-Sea blending Georgian charm with tranquil seaside greenery and scenic estuary views.
Never Never Land
0.2 km
Step into the enchanting fairy-tale world of Never Never Land, Southend’s magical seaside park filled with whimsical castles and timeless charm.
Cliff Lift
0.2 km
Ride Britain’s shortest historic funicular railway, a charming vintage lift linking Southend’s clifftop to its scenic seafront.
Southend Observation Tower
0.2 km
Historic Pier Hill lift offering stunning panoramic views over the Thames Estuary in Southend-on-Sea.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.2 km
Historic marble statue of Queen Victoria overlooking Southend’s seafront, symbolizing Victorian heritage and seaside charm.
Southend Pier and Railway
0.3 km
Experience the world's longest pleasure pier, blending rich history, scenic railway rides, and vibrant seaside leisure in Southend-on-Sea.
Adventure Inside
0.3 km
A vibrant indoor playground and ride zone for children under 10, offering year-round fun and soft play at Southend’s Adventure Island.
Prittlewell Gardens
0.3 km
Discover Southend’s oldest park, a serene garden oasis with vibrant blooms, a tranquil pond, and scenic estuary views in the town centre.
Adventure Island
0.4 km
Southend’s vibrant beachfront amusement park offering free entry, thrilling rides, indoor fun, and family-friendly entertainment all year round.
Focal Point Gallery
0.4 km
Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant contemporary art gallery offering free exhibitions, workshops, and outdoor digital art in a welcoming city-centre setting.
Spinning Turtle Ride
0.5 km
Enjoy gentle spinning swings on the turtle-themed Archelon ride at Adventure Island, a lively seaside amusement park in Southend-on-Sea.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
0.6 km
Experience seven miles of vibrant British seaside charm with historic piers, thrilling amusement parks, and scenic coastal views at Southend-on-Sea Seafront.
Wayfinding Stone
0.6 km
A modern stone circle landmark at Southend’s High Street, blending local heritage with urban wayfinding and cultural connection.
Essential places to dine
Clarence Restaurant & Cafe
0.1 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
San Fairie Ann
0.1 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Tomassi's
0.1 km
A welcoming Southend-on-Sea eatery serving hearty meals, pizzas, and ice cream in a friendly, casual setting on the town’s High Street.
Aurum Restaurant
0.1 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
The Royal Hotel
0.1 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
The Mews
0.2 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
Waves Restaurant
0.2 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
The Pipe of Port
0.2 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
La Petite Petanque
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
Rose Restaurant
0.4 km
Fresh English and European cuisine served with friendly warmth on Southend’s scenic Marine Parade, perfect for family dining by the sea.
Molo Lounge
0.5 km
A vibrant, artsy lounge on Southend’s High Street offering extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Il Pescatore
0.5 km
Experience authentic Sicilian seafood and Italian hospitality in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Il Pescatore.
The Sunflower Bistro
0.6 km
A welcoming, affordable bistro in Southend-on-Sea offering fresh British fare and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere perfect for any casual meal.
ASK Italian
0.6 km
Modern Italian dining near Southend seafront, blending classic flavors with community spirit and seasonal delights.
Brickhouse
0.6 km
A lively Southend-on-Sea hotspot serving up juicy burgers and smoky barbecue in a casual, welcoming setting with great value.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Books-on-Sea
0.0 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
By the Sea Vintage
0.1 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Santas Surprise Letter
0.2 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
0.2 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
The Works
0.4 km
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Clinton Cards
0.4 km
A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
That's Bizarre
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, personalised keepsakes, and high-vibration crystals at That's Bizarre, Southend-on-Sea’s family-run alternative gift shop since 1971.
Africa Crafts Centre
0.5 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
Teddy Station
0.6 km
Discover rare collectible teddy bears and join a warm community of enthusiasts at Southend’s Teddy Station, a haven for teddy bear lovers.
Victoria Shopping Centre
0.6 km
Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
ideal gift shop
0.7 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Southend Rock & Gifts
0.7 km
Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
The Rockery
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Rockery, a charming seaside shop on Southend’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Two Vintage
1.0 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Two Vintage, Southend-on-Sea’s curated clothing boutique.
No Potential
1.1 km
Independent art studio and vintage fashion shop blending creative practice with curated nostalgia.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
0.0 km
A lively hotspot in Southend-on-Sea where brunch delights meet expertly crafted cocktails in a trendy, vibrant setting.
Infinity Showbar
0.0 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
The Terrace Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar with lively entertainment and a spacious terrace near Southend’s iconic seafront.
The N & M Club
0.1 km
Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
Legbas - Private Hire Speakeasy Bar
0.1 km
An exclusive, vintage-inspired speakeasy bar in Southend-on-Sea’s Royal Hotel basement, perfect for private celebrations and crafted cocktails.
The Alex
0.1 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
The Hush Bar
0.1 km
A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
The Last Post - JD Wetherspoon
0.2 km
Historic post office turned lively JD Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Southend-on-Sea, offering affordable dining, live sports, and comfortable stays.
SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
0.2 km
A lively Southend pub blending live jazz, weekend music, and sports screenings in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Aloha Lounge
0.2 km
Experience a vibrant tropical oasis in Southend-on-Sea with exceptional cocktails, island-inspired cuisine, and warm, welcoming vibes at Aloha Lounge.
View Bar
0.3 km
Friendly seaside bar with great views, well-priced drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere on Southend’s Clifftown Parade.
The Dickens
0.3 km
Lively pub and nightclub in Southend-on-Sea offering karaoke, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all-night fun.
Popworld Southend
0.4 km
Popworld Southend: Where nostalgic pop hits meet vibrant nightlife for unforgettable party experiences in Essex.
Papillon
0.4 km
Lively seafront pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great drinks, free live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
SWITCH
0.5 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and games lounge in Southend-on-Sea blending creative drinks with interactive fun and social gaming.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Foundation
0.0 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
0.0 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
0.4 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
Just Vibez
0.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Moonraker Club
1.7 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
The Lounge Jazz Club
4.6 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Loft Basildon
18.1 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
27.3 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Club Tantalize
27.4 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
27.4 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
30.9 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
35.9 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
41.2 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
41.5 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Aesthetic Corners
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
