The Bookshop on the Square Otley
Georgina Pellant
A must-visit for book lovers, The Bookshop on the Square can be found in the heart of Otley – a charming and historic market town in Wharfedale located just north of Leeds. A vibrant West Yorkshire town with plenty to offer, a visit to the local bookshop pairs perfectly with a stroll through the farmer’s market which takes over the square here every Sunday.
The Bookshop on the Square is brimming with titles spanning everything from contemporary fiction and classic literature, non-fiction, poetry and children’s books. There is also a selection of greeting cards and stationery to browse, making the shop something of a treasure trove for thoughtful gifts and literary finds alike.
The Bookshop is a place for readers to come together, and the team here hosts a variety of engaging literary events throughout the year. Its book social evenings offer fans a great opportunity to meet their favourite authors, with past guests including the fantastic Daisy Buchanan (no, not the love interest of F Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 novel The Great Gatsby, although what a great coincidence).
The shop also has its own function room and community space upstairs, which it uses for events and the occasional art exhibit as well as hiring out for private use. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate a special occasion, showcase your creative work, or host your own private reading club, the multifunctional upstairs space suits a variety of different purposes and welcomes varied community groups into its fold throughout the week.
Young readers can come together at the shop’s Junior Book Club, which meets monthly after school on Fridays. Here, 7-11 year olds’ imaginations can run wild as they explore new stories and discuss them with their peers. As for younger children, there is also a weekly Saturday story time session specially designed for parents, babies and toddlers.
With its carefully curated selection, warm atmosphere, and commitment to fostering a love of literature, The Bookshop on the Square is more than just a bookshop—it’s a place where stories come to life and readers of all ages can feel at home. Whether you’re browsing fresh local produce or hunting for literary treasures, take it from us – Otley’s lively atmosphere makes for a very enjoyable day out.
