Barry McKay Rare Books: A Treasure Trove of Book Arts and History in Appleby-in-Westmorland
Discover rare and fine books celebrating the art and history of the book in a charming Appleby-in-Westmorland setting.
Barry McKay Rare Books, located at 21 Battlebarrow in Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, is a specialist bookshop renowned for its collection of out-of-print and new books focusing on the arts and history of the book. The shop also offers a curated selection of antiquarian and fine printing works, making it a must-visit for bibliophiles and collectors interested in printing, typography, bookbinding, and papermaking.
A brief summary to Barry Mckay Rare Books
- 21 Battlebarrow, Appleby-in-Westmorland, CA16 6XT, GB
- +441768352282
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 10 AM and 4 PM for the best browsing experience, as the shop is closed on weekends.
- Contact the shop in advance if you wish to arrange a weekend appointment or inquire about specific rare items.
- Bring a keen eye for book arts and history to appreciate the specialized collections on printing, typography, and bookbinding.
- Consider shipping options for purchases if you cannot carry rare or heavy volumes home, with insurance available for valuable items.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Barry Mckay Rare Books 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 Barry Mckay Rare Books
A Specialist Haven for Book Enthusiasts
Barry McKay Rare Books stands out as a dedicated specialist bookseller in the heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland. The shop’s focus is on the arts and history of the book, including printing and typography, bookbinding and calligraphy, papermaking and decoration, and the history of the book trade. It offers both out-of-print and new books, alongside a carefully selected stock of antiquarian volumes and modern fine press editions. This combination creates a unique destination for collectors and scholars alike.Location and Ambience
Situated at 21 Battlebarrow, the shop occupies a charming setting in Cumbria, a region known for its rich literary and cultural heritage. The atmosphere inside reflects a quiet, contemplative space where visitors can immerse themselves in the tactile and visual pleasures of rare and finely crafted books. The shop’s interior complements its collection with a focus on heritage and craftsmanship, appealing to those who appreciate the artistry behind book production.Expertise and Legacy
Barry McKay Rare Books has been a respected name in the rare book trade since 1999 and is affiliated with the PBFA (Professional Booksellers Association). The shop is known for its expert knowledge and commitment to authenticity, providing detailed descriptions and transparent pricing. This dedication ensures buyers receive genuine items with full disclosure of any notable defects or restorations.Curated Collections and Specialties
The shop’s specialties include private press books, fine printing, bibliography, and the history of bookbinding and calligraphy. It also holds a notable collection related to Cumbria and the Lake District, linking the local cultural landscape with its literary offerings. Collectors will find rare editions and unique items that reflect the evolution of book arts over centuries.Visiting and Services
Barry McKay Rare Books is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 16:00, offering a focused and personal shopping experience. While the shop does not open on weekends regularly, appointments can sometimes be arranged. The shop accepts multiple currencies and payment methods, including sterling, US dollars, euros, PayPal, and most credit cards except American Express. Shipping services are available, with careful packaging and insurance options to protect valuable purchases.The Cultural Significance of Rare Books
Beyond commerce, Barry McKay Rare Books serves as a cultural custodian, preserving and promoting the history and craft of bookmaking. Its collections provide insights into the evolution of printing technology, artistic trends, and historical contexts that shaped literature and knowledge dissemination. For visitors, the shop is more than a retail space—it is a gateway to the rich heritage of the written word and the artistry embedded in every volume.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Bridge House
34.7 km
Explore the historic Bridge House in Ambleside, a stunning 17th-century riverside gem in the heart of the Lake District's breathtaking landscapes.
Windermere and Troutbeck
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Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Hardraw Force Waterfall
34.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hardraw Force, England's highest single-drop waterfall, set in the stunning Yorkshire Dales.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
35.0 km
Visit Rydal Mount and Gardens, the historic home of poet William Wordsworth, and explore its stunning gardens and rich literary heritage.
Brockhole on Windermere
35.4 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
35.5 km
Discover Queen Adelaide's Hill, a breathtaking viewpoint in the Lake District, offering stunning vistas of Windermere and lush landscapes.
Ambleside Roman Fort
35.5 km
Experience the rich history at Ambleside Roman Fort, a key archaeological site in the heart of the Lake District, offering stunning views and engaging exhibits.
Rydal Cave
36.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Rydal Cave in Ambleside, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes.
Dales Countryside Museum
36.4 km
Discover the captivating history and natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales at the Dales Countryside Museum, a must-visit for all travelers.
National Trust - Wray
36.6 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
Wordsworth Grasmere
36.7 km
Explore the enchanting world of William Wordsworth at Wordsworth Grasmere, a museum nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District.
Barnard Castle
36.7 km
Discover Barnard Castle, a stunning historical landmark with breathtaking views and rich stories waiting to be explored.
Lake District
37.2 km
Explore the natural wonders of the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with captivating lakes, scenic hikes, and charming villages.
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
37.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich literary history of Allan Bank and Grasmere, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Sizergh
37.7 km
Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Courtyard Gallery
0.6 km
Discover original art in a historic 17th-century granary at the heart of Appleby, with cozy refreshments to enhance your visit.
St Anne’s Hospital
0.7 km
Historic 17th-century almshouses founded by Lady Anne Clifford, offering serene gardens and a glimpse into Appleby’s charitable heritage.
The Norman Centre
0.8 km
Explore the immersive Norman Centre within Appleby Castle’s 12th-century keep, where history and stunning Eden Valley views converge.
Appleby Castle
1.0 km
Explore Appleby Castle’s Norman keep, Clifford family legacy, and scenic Eden Valley grounds in one of Cumbria’s most historic landmarks.
Cafe Sixty Six
4.4 km
Cozy Cumbrian cafe serving hearty breakfasts and comfort food with scenic views and friendly service in Ketland Moor.
Rutter Force
5.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Rutter Force waterfall and mill in Cumbria’s Eden Valley.
High Cup Nick
8.2 km
Discover the breathtaking glacial valley of High Cup Nick, a dramatic Pennine escarpment offering stunning views and rugged hiking on the famous Pennine Way.
National Trust - Acorn Bank
9.9 km
Historic herb gardens, traditional orchards, and a working watermill in a tranquil Eden Valley estate near Penrith.
Winderwath Gardens
11.7 km
Discover Winderwath Gardens, a serene and beautifully landscaped private garden in Temple Sowerby, perfect for tranquil nature escapes and plant lovers.
Gamelands Stone Circle
13.4 km
Explore Cumbria’s largest prehistoric stone circle, a mysterious embanked monument steeped in ancient history and rural charm.
National Trust - Keld Chapel
14.4 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Keld Chapel, a 16th-century chantry nestled quietly in Cumbria’s scenic countryside near Shap.
Shap Abbey
14.6 km
Discover the serene ruins of Shap Abbey, a 12th-century Premonstratensian monastery nestled in Cumbria’s tranquil Lowther Valley.
Smardale Gill Viaduct
14.6 km
Explore the stunning 14-arch Smardale Gill Viaduct, a Victorian engineering masterpiece nestled in a vibrant nature reserve near Kirkby Stephen.
Countess Pillar, Brougham
15.9 km
A 17th-century monument near Brougham Castle marking a heartfelt farewell and lasting legacy of Lady Anne Clifford and her mother.
Stenkrith Park
16.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Stenkrith Park, where river-carved landscapes meet historic viaducts and poetic trails.
Essential places to dine
7eventy1 Appleby-in-westmorland, Cumbria
0.5 km
Authentic Indian flavors with personalized service in the historic heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland.
Crown & Cushion Inn
0.5 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at Crown & Cushion Inn in scenic Appleby-in-Westmorland with cozy accommodations and delicious meals.
Masons Arms-CUMBRIA-LONG MARTON- APPLEBY-IN WESTMORLAND- CUMBRIA CA166BN CA16 6BN
4.2 km
Historic village pub in Cumbria offering classic British dishes, warm hospitality, and scenic gardens with sunset views.
The Stag Inn
4.3 km
Experience authentic Cumbrian hospitality at The Stag Inn—your perfect retreat in Dufton with delicious food and stunning views.
The New Crown Inn
5.0 km
A charming 4-star country pub and boutique inn in Bolton, offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and warm hospitality near Appleby-in-Westmorland.
The Three Greyhounds Inn
7.7 km
A cozy, traditional Cumbrian pub offering hearty home-cooked food, local ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Asby.
Westmorland Hotel
16.7 km
A peaceful Lake District haven offering cosy rooms, local cuisine, and scenic fell views just off the M6 motorway.
The Black Swan
17.3 km
Charming 4-star inn in Ravenstonedale offering award-winning dining, cosy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere near the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District.
FYR Grill at North Lakes Hotel
19.0 km
Experience modern British grilling with local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere at FYR Grill, Penrith’s acclaimed restaurant within North Lakes Hotel.
Four & Twenty
19.0 km
A charming Penrith bistro serving fresh, seasonal British dishes with global flair and a curated wine and cocktail selection.
The Hired Lad Restaurant
19.2 km
A cozy café and restaurant in Penrith’s Agricultural Hall serving hearty British fare in a warm, community-focused setting.
1863 Restaurant with Rooms
21.3 km
Elegant boutique lodging and Michelin-level modern British dining in the heart of Pooley Bridge, overlooking Ullswater’s serene beauty.
Horse and Farrier
23.1 km
Lake District gastropub serving exceptional seasonal cuisine in a charming village setting near Ullswater.
Rampsbeck Restaurant
23.2 km
Contemporary British dining with lake views, seasonal Cumbrian produce, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere in Watermillock.
The Clickham Inn
23.8 km
A stylish Mediterranean tapas inn near Penrith offering authentic flavors, warm hospitality, and a dog-friendly atmosphere on the edge of the Lake District.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barry Mckay Rare Books
0.0 km
Discover rare and fine books celebrating the art and history of the book in a charming Appleby-in-Westmorland setting.
The Cupboard Under The Stairs
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and magical Harry Potter treasures in the heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland’s historic market street.
Branthwaites of Appleby
0.5 km
Discover unique local gifts and warm hospitality at Branthwaites, a charming shop nestled in the historic heart of Appleby-in-Westmorland.
Church Gallery
15.1 km
A multi-level gem in Kirkby Stephen: browse quirky gifts and cards, sip coffee, and shop ladies’ clothes in a dog-friendly, relaxed café-shop hybrid.
The Unicorn
19.2 km
Discover unique gifts and artistic treasures in Penrith’s beloved independent shop, The Unicorn, open Monday to Saturday.
The Barn
21.4 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
Mellow Yellow
25.8 km
Discover Mellow Yellow, Alston’s quirky and welcoming gift shop with a treasure trove of vintage and contemporary finds at the top of Front Street.
Sainsbury's
31.2 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Swaledale Woollens
32.2 km
Discover authentic, handmade woollen knitwear crafted by local artisans in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales at Swaledale Woollens.
Clarks Outlet
32.5 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
32.6 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Ryman Stationery
32.6 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
32.6 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Waterstones
32.6 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Elephant Yard Shopping
32.6 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hare & Hounds
0.5 km
Traditional British pub in Appleby with cozy log fire, excellent real ales, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Royal Oak Inn
1.1 km
Charming 17th-century coaching inn in Appleby with cozy rooms, excellent local food, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in the heart of Eden Valley.
Pennine View Bar/Restaurant
4.5 km
Rustic charm and local flavors meet breathtaking Pennine views at this cozy bar and restaurant in Appleby-in-Westmorland.
The Taggy Man
15.1 km
A quirky, cosy, and dog-friendly pub in Kirkby Stephen offering hearty pies, local ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Dog Beck
18.9 km
Historic charm meets modern hospitality at The Dog Beck, Penrith’s welcoming Wetherspoon pub open from early morning until late night.
Penrith Conservative Club
18.9 km
A welcoming social venue in Penrith offering lively events, a classic bar, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria.
The Warehouse
19.1 km
A lively multi-bar nightclub in Penrith offering vibrant weekend nightlife with music, dancing, and a welcoming social scene.
Board & Elbow
19.1 km
A lively, family-friendly pub in Penrith serving traditional British classics, local ales, and offering a warm atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
21.4 km
Traditional Lakeland inn with cozy rooms, hearty pub fare, and lakeside charm in the heart of Pooley Bridge village.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
29.8 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Whistling Pig
31.8 km
A welcoming Staveley pub serving hearty local roasts and generous portions in a cosy, friendly atmosphere near Kendal.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
31.8 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Farmers Arms
32.2 km
A beloved traditional pub in Muker offering hearty food, cozy charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
The New Union
32.4 km
Kendal’s lively craft pub with an exceptional whisky selection, great beer, and a welcoming, no-nonsense atmosphere.
Masons Yard 24
32.6 km
A lively Kendal pub blending modern style, strong cocktails, and hearty food with a welcoming vibe and renovated outdoor space.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
secret bridge
10.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The loose moose
19.2 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
Windermere Social Club
35.4 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
37.3 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Secret Carlisle
44.5 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
44.8 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
45.2 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
45.3 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
The George Inn
49.0 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Phoenix Club & Bar
50.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of Hexham at Phoenix Club & Bar, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The Dalesman's Club
52.3 km
Discover The Dalesman's Club in Leyburn, a vibrant sports club offering a welcoming atmosphere and engaging activities for visitors.
The Cavern Music Bar
52.5 km
Experience the pulse of Richmond's nightlife at The Cavern Music Bar, where live music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
sherdy sherd primary school
53.5 km
Experience Richmond’s vibrant nightlife at Sherdy Sherd Primary School, a uniquely named nightclub with extensive hours and lively atmosphere.
Louis Bar
55.3 km
A vibrant nightclub and bar in Catterick Garrison offering live music, quality food, and a lively atmosphere for all-night entertainment.
G & P Events and Mobile Bars
56.2 km
Discover a vibrant bar and events venue in Kettlewell, Yorkshire, perfect for gatherings amidst stunning Dales scenery.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
