Word On The Water: A Floating Book Shop On Regent's Canal

Floating Bookshop Word On The Water At King's Cross.

London's only floating bookshop has been bobbing around London for almost 15 years.

You've probably had a browse around the quirky, independent bookshops around Hampstead Heath, or lost hours making your way around the vast collections at Foyles. Either way, if your an avid bookworm, then you've probably explored them all.

But did you know that Regent's Canal is home to the quirkiest book shop of them all? Here's everything you need to know about Word on the Water.

Word On The Water: The London Bookbarge

What Is Word On The Water?

Word on the Water is London's only floating bookshop. It opened in 2011 and has since been serving book lovers from across the capital while drifting along Regent's Canal.

Since its opening, the barge has faced many trials and tribulations. Before they were allowed a permanent spot in King's Cross, they had to up sticks every two weeks due to the canal boat laws. And a few years ago, the boat almost sunk due to a mass flood. But despite these small set backs, the bookbarge is still going strong.

It also certainly beats your local Waterstones, as you can explore the vast range of books outside the shop, as well as the stacked shelves on board the 100-year-old Dutch barge.

They also have a range of events on throughout the year, including:

  • Jazz and poetry nights 
  • Poetry readings
  • Book festivals
  • Launch parties

Check out Word on the Water's Facebook page for more information on their upcoming events.

Where Is Word On The Water?

Here's the address: York Way, Granary Square, London, N1C 4AB

What Are Word On The Water's Opening Times?

The bookbarge is open every day from midday until 7pm. 

Love a barge experience? Here are the best river boat restaurants in London.