While we do enjoy exploring all the cute bookshops around Edinburgh, there is something on a completely different level that book lovers can discover in Scotland. Wigtown is the official Scottish National Book Town, boasting hundreds of thousands of books, as well as cultural events like music, theatre and literature.
Located in the southwest of Scotland in the Machars area of Dumfries & Galloway around three hours from Edinburgh, Wigtown is not only home to plenty of literary spots, but also stunning scenery. The town was designated as Scotland’s National Book Town in 1998, yet has been around for around 1000 years. Formerly an important strategic point for crossing the river, Wigtown has lost its former glory from around the 19th Century. However, since receiving its literary title, the area has seen plenty of renovations and new businesses pop up.
Visitors can spend the day shopping, exploring the medieval city centre or attending some of the town’s annual events. Plus, there is a book market every Saturday between Easter and September.
Annual events at Wigtown
Wigtown Spring Weekend
Every year, Wingtown Spring Weekend takes place around May to celebrate everything books, with plenty of booksellers, talks, exhibitions and music. The dates are usually announced in mid-March, so keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming festival.
Community Festival
Wigtown Community Festival is an annual July event focused on family events.
The Wigtown Book Festival
The Wigtown Book Festival has been around ever since 1998 and is one of the most significant literary events in the country. Taking place between September 27 and October 6 in 2024, the festival will host over 200 events including music, theatre, food and visual arts.
The bookshops of Wigtown
And now, onto what we all came here for – Wigtown’s 16 bookshops. Our favourite place is probably The Open Book, an Air BnB which offers a holiday in a bookshop. Guests can literally stay in a bookshop that is also an apartment, where visitors get to actually run the bookshop while staying at the self-catering holiday home. Creative ideas are welcome as you run the business, however, just running the shop quietly is also appreciated.
Wel also love Reading Glasses Bookshop & Cafe, and not just because it’s pink. With plenty of cosy nooks and sofas for reading, the quirky spot claims to be the “only women’s bookshop in Britain” with the front room dedicated to books “by and about women”.
So, it’s impossible not to be sold on this charming destination: Wigtown is a place for quiet contemplation, perfect for that much-needed day trip.