Leakey’s Bookshop

With over 100,000 books covering almost every square inch of surface, Leakey’s Bookshop in the heart of Inverness is a must-visit for book lovers. Making best use of a former Gaelic church, this unique bookshop offers a welcoming environment for everyone to peruse, ponder and buy books, many of which are hard to get a hold of today. There’s also a glorious log fire (safely apart from the books!) making it a perfect destination on colder days. 

A charming Inverness bookstore

Situated in St. Mary’s Gaelic Church, built in 1793, Leakey’s Bookshop is on Church Street in Inverness. It makes the most of the interior architecture, with high ceilings, stained glass windows, and a grand spiral staircase. This creates an other-worldy atmosphere that makes you feel like you are in a movie or have been sent back in time. Tall shelves line the walls, brimming with books that you could spend hour perusing. 

There are so many books that the whole inventory isn’t available. Sometimes, you’ve just got to set aside time to browse. However, they do have a range of books available to buy online, in case you don’t quite manage a visit. 

Extensive collections

Leakey’s boasts a remarkable collection of second-hand books, ranging from rare and antiquarian volumes to contemporary paperbacks. Whether you’re searching for a classic novel, an obscure historical text or a modern bestseller, you might just find it here. Everything is well ordered and easy to find, but there’s always someone around to help. 

The shop’s vast selection covers a wide range of genres. Popular literature, history, science, art, and more can be found here.  Many books stocks are out of print, so are hard to find in other stores, and impossible to find in most other high street bookshops.

Part of the charm of Leakey’s is the thrill of discovery. You just don’t know what you’re going to find! There might be an old paperback hidden in a corner, or a rare book just sitting next other hidden gems. This really is a shop you could lose yourself in for hours. 

A part of the community

Leakey’s is a strong supporter of local authors. Here, you can find plenty of books by Scottish writers, and sometimes has book signings and readings. By visiting Leakey’s, you’re not just browsing a bookshop; you’re connecting with Scotland’s culture.

Leakey’s Bookshop is just a 25-minute walk from the Kingsmills Hotel, into the centre of Inverness. It’s a great place to spend an hour (or more!) during your visit. Book your stay with us now and retire to your room at the end of the day in a comfortable bed with a great novel from Leakey’s Bookshop.