Brilliant Bookshops: Bailey Hill Bookshop, Castle Cary

Castle Cary is a pretty little town in Somerset. The castle, which was besieged by King Stephen in 1138 during the struggle for the throne between Stephen and his cousin, Matilda, no longer exists with only earthworks remaining today. A small museum in the Market House, which dominates the centre of the town, houses a range of objects from the town’s history and behind the Market House, you can see the Roundhouse lock-up, one of only four such buildings surviving in the country today.

Not far from the Market House, along Fore Street is Bailey Hill Bookshop in the heart of the town. This light, welcoming shop is on two floors with a second-hand department on a gallery above. The shop offers a wonderful range of books on all manner of subjects with a lovely children’s section at the back.

Laid out in a very child-friendly manner., there is plenty of space to browse- even a little nook under the stairs for hiding away and enjoying a good read! Children of all ages are catered for with plenty of information books alongside fiction titles.

A lovely selection of classic and gift titles is available with beautiful editions of the ‘Swallows and Amazons’ books, ‘The Little White Horse’ and the clothbound classic edition of ‘Charlotte’s Web’, sure to tempt readers young and old. A wide range of publishers- including independents - are represented, offering lots of choice.

The second hand section is full of delights to browse through and plenty of treasures to find. A calm, peaceful atmosphere makes the perfect environment for perusing the shelves and friendly staff are on hand to help if needed. This thriving village bookshop is one not to miss!

Bailey Hill Book Shop
Fore Street
Castle Cary
BA7 7BG