Persephone Books

A Mecca for any book lover. This is a shop with an understated indulgent and thoughtful feel that welcomes and encourages you to discover your next favourite read, that you never would have found before without them.

I met a woman on a train who raved about a book she had read, she pretty much bullied me into ordering it there and then. It was from this fantastic bookshop, full to bursting with hidden gems. The book was great and passed on to my mother in law when she was recently in hospital. I’ve been here a few times but this interaction just reminded me about how books can connect us, console us and help spark conversation. It’s right at the top of Milsom street near some lovely cafe’s, clothes stores and homeware spots. 100% would recommend for anyone but especially Austen or Mary Shelley fans as it’s very much in the spirit of Bath’s literary past.

This is a lovely bookshop and was supposed to be one of the highlights for my trip to Bath. But like some of the other reviews I've read, found staff a bit weird. A woman comes up and tidies up right after where I was looking, and goes sit back down. There was nothing to tidy up, just gave me the impression that I was not welcome. Not a great vibe, and I'll be sure to let everyone in my circle know. Maybe because of the way I look I don't fit into what clientele they want.

A gorgeous independent bookshop in Bath filled with happy lighting and beautiful books. Little cards tell you everything you need to know about any given book and each one comes with a bookmark that matches the end papers. A fantastic place to learn about lesser known female writers and pick up a riveting new read.

I had the pleasure of visiting Persephone Books recently, and it was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the store’s serene and inviting atmosphere. The collection is thoughtfully curated, focusing on reprinted works—mainly by women writers—from the mid-20th century, which makes every title feel like a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered. Choosing books was no easy task because every title seemed so compelling! After much deliberation, I left with three incredible finds: Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day by Winifred Watson, Sofia Petrovna by Lydia Chukovskaya, and A Woman’s Place 1910–1975 by Ruth Adam. The unique charm of their beautifully designed editions, complete with matching bookmarks, adds to the joy of the reading experience. What struck me most was the focus on domestic feminism and stories that highlight women’s lives in all their complexity. At a time when amplifying women’s voices is more crucial than ever, Persephone Books provides a vital platform for stories that might otherwise be forgotten. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling and its role in shaping our understanding of history and society.

This is a great book shop and deserves all the success in the world. The one thing I would change however, to ensure that it continues to make customers delighted to buy books there, is the attitude of the lady behind the counter who really was the the complete opposite of this lovely bookshop with her rude behaviour. Have someone friendly and kind behind the counter and this bookshop would be wonderful. As it was our enthusiasm was completely dampened by this lady’s rudeness and regrettably we didn’t feel eager to return again in future. Hope this change to customer service can be made. Such a shame otherwise.

Absolutely lovely store and experience. From the concept (publishing forgotten, mainly female, authors from the 20th century), to their selection, to the way it's presented (each book in a little stack with a synopsis taped to the shelf in front of it), it's all a 10/10. Got "The Making of a Marchioness" and am already loving it a few chapters in. My only regret is not being able to buy more books, as I would have had trouble fitting them in my suitcase. A must-see in Bath for book lovers.

Wonderful independent bookshop selling books from Persephone Books, their independent publishing company! Shining a spotlight on overlooked women authors, this shop is a real gem and essential to ensure we remember the generations of women writers who came before us that allow us the (more) equal status that female authors have today. There's also space above where workshops are held; during the festival of ideas, I sent to a fantastic historical writing workshop with a wonderful group of women.