In the last few years there has been a true resurgence of not only bookshops (Edinburgh has gained four new bookshops in the last five years) but also places that have made books an integral part of their offering. For Book Week Scotland, our sales representative Ann introduces some of her favourite new(ish) shops. Be warned – cake features heavily.
Adventure Into Books
26 Wellmeadow, Blairgowrie, PH10 6AS
The newest kid on the bookshop block, Adventure Into Books is a small but perfectly formed bookshop in Blairgowrie, run by husband and wife team Ralph and Kate. Ralph knows every inch of the shop’s shelves intimately – after all, he spent a lot of time varnishing and painting them to get the shop ready for the opening earlier this year. Watch out for his handmade pieces too! Kate is responsible for filling said shelves with a great selection of book. From current bestsellers to personal favourites, anyone visiting is guaranteed to discover something new to read.
Visit their website here.
(Source: https://www.facebook.com/adventureintobooks/photos) Kate unpacking the first books
(Source: https://www.facebook.com/adventureintobooks/photos)
The Bookhouse
41 Gray Street, Broughty Ferry, Dundee, United Kingdom, DD5 2BJ
Formerly in Monifieth, The Bookhouse is now happily ensconced on the bustling Broughty Ferry high street. This beautiful shop is a family affair, with husband and wife team Andy and Alison and son Steven all pitching in, especially with their numerous (last count: six) book groups. Pop in for local writers, a great kids section and lots of personal recommendations.
Visit their website here.

Birnam Reader
Station Rd, Birnam, Dunkeld, PH8 0DS
I love a second-hand bookshop, and Frazer, the owner of Birnam Reader, fills his shelves with a fantastic and wide range of titles. He also makes a great cup of coffee, to go with the rather nice cakes on offer, and if you are lucky, you can get a seat in their window to watch the world go by.
Visit their Facebook (especially if you like pictures of cake).
(Source: https://www.facebook.com/thebirnamreader/photos) (Source: https://www.facebook.com/thebirnamreader/photos)
The Woodhouse
Kippen Station, FK8 3JA, Stirling
If you love good local produce, delicious cake, books and a warm welcome, The Woodhouse is the place for you. This farm shop and café has a small but beautifully curated books section, specializing in children’s books. Also stop in for their excellent collection of greeting cards.
Visit their website here.
(Source: https://www.facebook.com/TheWoodhouseKippen/photos) (Source: https://www.facebook.com/TheWoodhouseKippen/photos)
Thomas Tosh
19 E Morton St, Thornhill, DG3 5LZ
Thomas Tosh is a gem of a place, and well worth the detour into Thornhill. Paul and his team are absolutely lovely, the coffee truly excellent and the selection of gifts, greeting cards and books even more so. A stunning building in itself, part of the space is used as a gallery with local artists on display – I challenge you to leave without spending some of your pennies (especially on things you didn’t know you wanted/needed).
Visit their website here.