Northshire Bookstore

This is a must stop. Worth a day trip from anywhere within 3 plus hours. Three floors. Top floor for kids. Second floor has used and high worth books. First floor is extensive with one section filled with cards and Vermont based gifts. Bathrooms second floor. Cafe with excellent beverage choices and food choices. Prices reasonable for books. Easy parking near store. Restaurants within walking distance. Some areas handicap friendly with elevator.

Best bookstore I ever visited by far. Books for all ages and covers every reading category. Trinkets knick knacks, kids games! Multiple floors! Great experience.

Large bookstore with 3 floors! Tons of books, and cute gifts - there’s even a cafe. Perfect stop for bookworms to explore

This is the BEST bookstore in the world! My family and I have been coming here for years every time we are in Manchester. It is one of the best attraction of Manchester. In the age of Amazon, we have forgotten the reasons for bookstores like Northshire. We have forgotten what it's like to be walking through the corridors of bookshelves and sample various books. We have forgotten the warm and cozy feel of a traditional bookstore. Every town should have a bookstore like Northshire and its citizens should buy all their books from there instead of Amazon.

Love this bookstore. They have books and more! What a wonderful place to grab a book, candle, incense, sweatshirt or small home goods decoration. If you want a cup of coffee or tea as you get a book, it is available. The book store gets very packed but they have several floors and areas to shop. Love this place!

Super cute bookstore with a large selection of books in varying genres. All of the staff was very friendly and helpful. One of the staff members even recommended us a great place for dinner just down the street as well as helping with book-related things. I would love the chance to visit again!

this is the most well-curated bookstore i have ever been to in my life. cozy used books area on the top floor, expansive children's books area, and a labyrinth of non-fiction, mystery, horror, contemporary fiction, etc., all in the same place. really well organized with recommendations from staff as well as "if you liked this, you'd like these books" type of listings up below each book. just a great bookstore all around - my group made the trek from bennington and it was so worth it. i came all the way from chicago and may go back for a second visit on this trip!

Best bookstore ever. You could spend hours in here just looking at the vast selection of books and recommendations. Charming and well organized with a delicious coffee shop. Just stepping inside makes you want to read all the books.

This is honestly the COOLEST bookstore imaginable. I won't lie, I've fallen into the Amazon trap of convenience and forgot how magical it is to actually explore a bookstore and I'm glad I picked this one to reinstate my love of bookstores (for more reasons than not wanting to support Bezos, but that's a whole other story). Northshire is HUGE first of all. Rooms and floors and nooks of everything imaginable. What I loved the most was how personable everything was - staff picks are everywhere with notes of why they loved certain books and there are these awesome little touches everywhere. One thing I really loved was their section of banned books and the reasons why they've been banned or challenged - I thought dedicating a section to this and making them accessible is incredibly important. Each section is labeled and in alphabetical order so it's really easy to peruse and find what you're looking for or to use the suggestions of the staff favorites to find your next favorite. Also, make sure you check out their cookbook section - I was blown AWAY (and walked out with Matty Matheson's new cookbook, which I consider a major win to buy in-person versus online). Not only do they have rooms and rooms (and multiple floors) of books, there are also a ton of gifts and also a beautifully curated record section too. There are all different price points, so there's something for everyone and the value is on par with an online retailer, but you're supporting local (they also ship! Free shipping on orders over $75, so I've found my new spot to order books). All in all, I walked out with a cookbook, a Stephen King novel, A Little Life which the cashier told me will break my heart into a million pieces, and the Kendrick MAAD City album - talk about an eclectic haul, but that in and of itself sums up Northshire perfectly. I cannot wait to be back!

Really loved this place. Almost too much since I walked away with 5 used cookbooks!!! We had a little lunch snack and coffee too. Delicious. Absolutely worth a stop if you're in town and love books, need a coffee break, or a snack, or lunch.

Such a nice bookstore! We stopped by after a hot day at the horse show. Once you entered the bookstore it is like you walked into a castle filled with books. There are many chairs/couches for you to sit and read. No one ever bothers you. There are many notecards on the shelves of staff recommendations. The children section on the third floor is breathtaking. Highly recommend if you want a peaceful afternoon reading.

After enjoying some great coffee, we decided to explore the downtown area and stumbled upon a charming bookstore with a cozy coffee shop tucked inside. Walking in felt like stepping into a magical space, rows of both used and new books filled the shelves. I picked up a World War II book for my son and a bee lotion set made with clean ingredients. The store was incredibly well-organized by genre, spotless, and had a warm, small-town vibe. I absolutely loved it. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the prices were quite reasonable. When I return to Vermont, I'll definitely make a point to visit this bookstore again.

How lovely! Such a big selection of new and used books. I found the prices to be reasonable and all staff I encountered extra friendly! Will make a trip out of my way to come back.

#1/2023 #558 ++ Ambiance is an intimate independent bookstore. TNB is surprisingly larger than its first appearance but feels cozy, bright and comfortable... the Northshire Bookstore is a bookstore that you want to get lost in. It is made of continuous small rooms filled with books, small treasures with a few seats. Outside there are a couple of small benches next to creative sculptures and quote filled floors. ++ TNB has a little bit of every genre. While they won't have every title, they likely have at one to two titles of an author. If not, they are happy to locate it for you. They have an awesome children's section upstairs up a gorgeous Hogwarts wrought iron stairs. Besides books, I found many trinkets and small gifts. They have a small coffee and café with a decent size self-serve DR. Their food choices are pretty decent quick pick me ups. Homemade soups, chili, sandwiches, desserts and froufrou bevies. + Price is on the higher side but not unreasonable. ++ Service was pleasant at both the café and the bookstore cashier. + Parking is a small private lot. It was packed and street parking is also available. The Northshire Bookstore is one of my favorite independent bookstores left that is actually thriving. A must stop in Manchester!

Love this bookstore and visit whenever we come to Manchester. We needed guidebooks this time for an upcoming trip to Spain and found three candidates right away (and bought two)! The cafe is nice and the overall decor is perfect, including the cute doorway made of books.

Just my fav place to visit and hang out ! I love that you can purchase used books as well. The best thing about Northshire - the staff! They will find any book you need. It's a must visit while in the area

A book lovers dream store from the archway made from book spines to the little nooks. You really can get lost in this bookstore for hours. I was looking for a particular book and my friend found a copy in the used section! Score! I'd definitely be back to get some of the local items in the shop section. Really unique gifts and keepsakes.

This is the BEST independent bookstore I've ever been to. Their ambiance and selection are above and beyond. This is my happy place. You can get a book cheaper online, but the shopping experience is so worth the money. Support your local bookstore

I'll keep it simple for you my friends: this is my favorite bookstore in the world. Go see it.

What a most wonderful bookstore. It seems like it is a small, quaint place but actually it is quite large and spacious. They have plenty of small places of different genres of books in addition to many areas to be able to pick up local goods and souvenirs. What an amazing place with so many options to buy so much stuff. If you happen to be in the neighborhood you have to stop in and see for yourself.

A great bookstore. Lots of variety and a balanced selection of books. No political agenda here. They carry what sells. Isn't that what a bookstore is supposed to do?

[1142] 12/2020 We saw all the great Yelp reviews so we decided to check this place out while we were in Vermont. I'm glad we did as this place is a book lovers dream. You can spend hours here just looking thru all the different floors of books of new and used books My son picked up a ton of books which made me happy. We decided to come back a second day since the place is so cool. Parking sucked since the lot was small. I'll definitely be back.

A temple of an independent bookstore. I can't think of a better one. The trick is not that they have everything. The trick is that they highlight cool books you wouldn't otherwise get to know about and which may make your life better (tongue in cheek staff notes on an edition of Gone With the Wind: "excellent movie potential"). And the space itself it simply compelling and excellent. You should go here. Be a part of it. You will buy some books and be glad you did.

Honestly this place holds a near & dear spot in my heart for over 2 decades now. My Nana & I regularly would come over from NY for a girls' day & spend hours in this bookstore. The upstairs section for children is phenomenal, while the downstairs section has so much variety and a great assortment of used books to shop from too. The cafe is a nice pit stop spot to keep you caffeinated as you hunt down all the treasures here. Whenever I'm in town, I always make a point of stopping here!

This place is great and any reason to be able to support a local bookstore, yes please. There is a great variety of all sorts of books, and a comfy atmosphere to be able to check them out in: a handful of armchairs throughout, open spaces and rooms where you can easily spend a couple hours checking out the many options. There's also an adjacent cafe with ample seating upstairs, if you want to grab a bite. I also am a big fan of bookstores that carry a variety of stationery and other assorted random items and Northshire also delivers. :) I was in need of some cards, and found a cute little set here. The location of the bookstore is right in the heart of town, so it's a great way to kick off the day and spend some time.

We came across this fabulous bookstore recently while on a stopover in Manchester. This place is a book lover's heaven. Shelves and shelves stacked with books of all genres, including a wide selection of eclectic titles not typically found in other bookstores. Some popular classics are available leather bound with gold embossed details, while others feature beautifully designed special edition book covers. No doubt these will make wonderful gifts and keepsakes for collectors. In addition to new titles, Northshire Bookstore also stocks secondhand books on standalone racks littered across its shop floor. What an eco- friendly way to recycle pre-owned books! We whiled away the afternoon exploring and browsing, finally leaving with several interesting publications. If you love reading and hanging out in a proper bookstore, this is the one place you would not want to miss!

Northshire Bookstore looks at first view, like a small Mom & Pop bookstore in an old New England town, occupying an old Colonial home with a relatively unimpressive frontage. That is, until you walk in and realize that its size is not only the house but several buildings attached to the old house, which makes it the size of a competitor in a large city. The store is a bit of a maze as it takes the inside footprint of several buildings but it meticulously organized. Every conceivable book is there. I was also impressed by their compliance with health rules which are part of their business model. We felt safe. If you're in Manchester, this is a must stop for any bibliophile...

Everything a bookstore should be. Even if you are not in the market for a book but are in the area you need to come see this place! The ambiance! But also great selection including gift items and vinyl.

This used to be a favorite bookstore whenever visiting Southern Vermont. However, this time, we've regrettably discovered it is no longer what it used to be. All the books in the window were solely representing "Woke" agenda, which demonstrated clearly any other opinions are simply not acceptable. The same happened when walking inside, and noticing all the recommended books were from the same point of view, and books that represent other views are not there at all. A bookstore shouldn't be about the politics of the store owners, but rather, a safe haven, where book lovers of any background can feel they are welcomed. It's a shame the owners don't try to look around their town - which by now is literally a ghost town, with 80% of the stores deserted - and understand the agenda they are promoting does nothing positive even to their own town. We chose to leave the place (which was almost empty, compared to former visits) and not support this agenda. Let all the "woke"sters enjoy it on their own.

This is a must go to bookstore when in Manchester. Lovely place to spend a couple of hours complete with a cafe with plenty of seating. A wonderful children's section on the top floor.

Overwhelmingly positive experience at this bookstore! At every turn there were diverse books in interesting subjects that weren't run-of-the-mill, typical offerings. Thrilling to see book displays of current hot topics such as corona and Asian culture for all ages.

Been here twice and both times my family and I have enjoyed just wandering around looking at the selection of books. The way it is set up you can sit down almost any where and enjoy your books. I love the layout of the shop as well, you can get lost in the rows and sections of the store, in a good way. Overall the people their are very nice and willing to help you find what you are looking for. I definitely recommend going to check it out even if you aren't a book lover. They have a lovely cafe, and my brother in particular likes the selection of non-book items like posters and stickers.

It's a gem and a must visit. Has a great selection of fiction, cute gifts, vinyls and a whole floor of kids books. Has a cafe on the premises - Bonnet and Main. Spaciois and bright. Great vibe. Highly recommended for breakfast, brunch or lunch. Or a coffee break.

I loved everything about this bookstore! During my vacation in the area, I had to visit twice because once was not enough! This store has three floor of books along with a wonderful selection of cards and gifts! The store had a great Science Fiction/Fantasy section (among all of their other amazing sections). If you are anywhere close to Manchester, VT, you should take the time to visit!!!

What a charming bookstore! It's conveniently located downtown, near the outlets and restaurants. I spent quite a bit of time here and ended up purchasing several books and locally-made knick-knacks.

Wonderful book, toy & game selection! Huge bookstore, lots to admire (book archway & rare signatures) - even the parking lot is entertaining with beautiful landscaping, shady place to sit, and a nearby gelato stand

Go!! No question about it. Even if you are a reluctant reader... go! We spent over an hour and a half there. Friendly and helpful staff and great variety. Go! Now!

This is a great local bookstore with a massive selection! It's very large - two floors - and has a great kids section, for those of you with children. It was a very popular spot - even at 8pm, and I can tell it's a local favorite. There are a few small seating areas throughout the store, and there's an attached cafe for those who want a bite before browsing. There is also a large used book section, where I found some great deals. An added bonus is that the bookstore is open "late" - until 9pm on a Saturday while the outlets close at 6. That definitely caught us by surprise! We easily spent over an hour in Northshire. It's a must-see for book lovers!

A rare gem of a bookstore. The term "Bookstore" doesnt do it justice. Its more like a library with amazing finds you can buy, together with a fantastic cafe. I asked a staff person if they had a section on modern Russian literature. Before I could say ...., two staff members had stacked a selection from writers I never heard of but all modern eastern european writers (ukranian, russian, etc.) I bought a novel by the russian writer Maxim Osipov and love it. The chili I had for lunch was the best.....ever. My wife's squash soup was great too.

Such a cute local bookstore! I stopped in on my stop through Manchester, which I'm glad I did. Aside from an abundance of books, this shop also sells clothing, toys, home decor and much more. I love the clothing options they had for children. The material used was organic cotton and was so soft that I couldn't resist buying some things for the kiddos. Also, the book selection was really great! They did a great job to keep your social distance and required masks, so I felt safer going in to shop here. Definitely a must stop when in Manchester!

What a wonderful, large bookstore! This place had a wide array of books for all ages, I'd definitely recommend it.

Friends who are local to Manchester recommended Northshire as a must visit on their wedding website. This bookstore is amazing. They really do have it all. The kids section is big, well organized and inviting. They have an awesome used book section and a great selection of signed books. There are also tons of local goods like pottery and maple syrup. We hung out here for an hour and a half and could have stayed longer.

This place is amazing! We visited with a few toddlers and stayed for almost 2 hours! So much to see and do, way more than just books. Lots of educational toys, stuffed animals, puppets, dress up clothes, and some nostalgic toys, too, for the older crowd (myself included) - think magic 8 balls, etc. fun play area for younger kids, and a cool ladder for adventurous youngsters to climb and sit in a pretend "tree fort" type area with gorgeous view of mountains. We found a fabulous new bedtime story book as well as some early-reader books for our toddler. So much fun! We hope to return and see the rest of the store, but for anyone with kids or anyone buying a gift for a child this is the place to start and finish your shopping!

One of the best bookstores I've ever visited. Even if I'm not buying much I like the overall atmosphere inside. It's very calming especially on a rainy day. Whenever I visit Manchester I always take an opportunity to stop by this place.

A must see when in Manchester, Vermont. This bookstore is one of the best independent bookstores out there. So many options from kids to adult.

So so so pretty! Worth the trip. Tons of books for all ages, genres, and interests. Great cafe too!

This is the coziest bookshop EVER. It is huge but it doesn't feel like it when you first walk in. There is so much to explore! My husband and I also enjoyed looking at all the goods/apparel sold here too. Loved it!

Fantastic old school bookstore. They don't make them like this anymore. It's a great way to spend a morning or afternoon milling about, reading, buying books, or enjoying a nice cup of coffee or sandwich from the attached coffee shop. Great selection of books, three floors, and a massive kids section too. They've got wonderful comfy couches to sit in and it is just a great relaxing atmosphere that promotes a great hobby, reading.

This bookstore would be impressive if it were in Portland Oregon or Berkeley. So the fact it's in one of the most charming small villages in New England makes it even more alluring. Three stories. Spend half a day here if you can. There's not much else to do in Manchester after all. Unless you fish, ski or hunt.

Love love this bookstore. It is gigantic and found the books I have been looking for! I was excited to buy from a local spot vs Amazon. The staff is so helpful and friendly. In the upstairs is the children's area which was incredibly charming! This bookstore is attached to an insanely delicious lunch spot. You have to go there and get it to go if you are full because everything we got was o so delicious!!!

I have been camping in this area each summer for the past 19 years, and Northshire Bookstore is the only place in Manchester that I absolutely insist on going to. I will haul my smelly, dirty self into that bookstore (no one has complained yet!) and get lost in the magic of this place. Despite visiting this bookstore year after year after year, I always seem to discover something new that has somehow gone unnoticed previously. This year my discoveries included: - The Used Book section: This small section is located to the right of the outdoor/recreational section. It's small, but boasts some great titles and very reasonable prices - The Game section: Located upstairs to the right of the bathrooms, this section has a remarkable selection of boardgames and card games. I had to use a phenomenal amount of self control to keep from purchasing Settlers of Catan and numerous expansion packs. Go, browse, lose yourself in this place, and then pop into the adjoining cafe and get a mocha while you crack open whatever amazing find you inevitably purchased.

This is the Harry Potter of bookstores (fitting because their upstairs section was themed after Harry Potter when I came in here). It's a massive bookstore, tied to a cafe and has multiple floors. We stopped in as we were passing through the town after grabbing some lunch in the hopes of finding a specific book. The staff was very helpful in helping me locate said-book. When I came to check it out, I noticed there was a little bit of damage and pointed it out and the clerk graciously offered me 10% off. All in all, it was a lovely experience and this is the sort of bookstore that you could easily lose track of time and end up finding a lot of gems. There is a great selection of contemporary books as well as classics and everything is very well organized and presented. If you're passing through Manchester Center, VT and you're looking for a book; definitely don't pass this one by!

This will always be my favorite bookstore in the world! All of the booksellers are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. They each have their own area of expertise so all of the genres are covered. I love the book selects program where you can pay to have a bookseller hand pick a new book each month to send to yourself or to a loved one. Not to mention that the kid's section could be a store all its own! There's something quite magical about the entirety of this store and its importance in the community. It's a little known fact that the Spiral Press Cafe is actually a separate business from the bookstore, but boy, is it conveniently placed or what? I love perusing the cozy and inviting bookstore with a warm chai latte in my hand.

Northshire is a book haven. By far one of the best bookstores I've ever been into. Found out about them about 15 years ago and my purpose in life is to read more so that I can in turn take a few hours to get lost in here. There is a cafe attached so you can grab a coffee and walk around. Not sure if that still stands with covid. Either way you won't be disappointed even if you're not typically a reader. Guarantee you'll find something at Northshire.

Stopped by this bookstore on a short trip to Vermont. Beautiful, welcoming bookstore with an array of genres. Absolutely loved the environment, and stopped for some food at the cafe. Staff were friendly and warm, and the food options were delicious. Picked up a veggie burger and chai latte. Both were yummy!

Visited this week, and was just blown away by how awesome this place is! Great selection in books and gifts, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff--they've got it all. And I have a big head start on my Christmas shopping for this year :-) If I lived in Vermont, I would hang out here all the time.

What an interesting place! There are many little alcoves and sections in this place that draws to to the books. Every section is a little different in its shape so your eye is drawn to different places. The content of each section is a little uneven. There is an overwhelming large mystery section with many used books available. However, there were only a few historical fiction books. They also sell greeting cards, magnets and bumper and stickers so there is a lot to pursue. Good luck making any selections. They are smart to put up signs with the slogan: See it here, but it here. There were also other messages and points to help you consider buying from this store, which makes sense given the level of competition with online sellers. There is something great about all the walking through leisurely at all the books to get a sample.