Bookshop Spotlight: The Margate Bookshop
The Nota Bene Prize is all about celebrating the power of the reading community. Arguably, no one plays a more crucial role in connecting readers with their favourite books and authors than the incredible independent booksellers.
This week we’re spotlighting The Margate Bookshop – an independent bookshop in the heart of Margate’s Old Town, a stone’s throw from the sea. Offering a selection of new and second-hand books, the shop opened it’s doors in May 2019 when owner Francesca found a beautiful Georgian shop space after years of searching for the right premises.
The Margate Bookshop hosts a regular book club, poetry feedback evenings and book launch events, while upstairs the Writers’ Room offers a space in which locals can work from and hold meetings. Their monthly book club meets once a month in a bar in Margate for you to discuss and dissect the chosen read.
Outdoor seating is available for customers to enjoy tea or coffee in the square where on warm days local musicians can be found playing. Nestled in a busy square alongside three cafés, a pub and a museum, it’s the perfect spot to spend an afternoon and bask in the sunshine.
Francesca’s curation of books is spot on. A small but mighty space, each book laid out on the table has been well thought-out. Although you can definitely find the bestsellers here, it’s the thought-provoking and diverse reads that they shine a light on. We always leave with several books in our tote and a whole host of wonderful recommendations to dive into.
