Bookshop Review: Waterstones Nottingham

As I write this I’m sat in W Cafe, Waterstones Nottingham, and it struck me that I’ve been in many a bookshop over the years, and I can’t remember ever reviewing one?

I think it’s more expected to spotlight a trip to a book city like Bath, for example, but perhaps there is a small group of like-minded people who would benefit from an honest review of any and all bookshops? I don’t know, it feels like something that I would find useful.

So, let’s try it?

Location: Waterstones Nottingham NG1 2GR

Reason for visit: A general browse and a quiet space to do some work

Book selection: A wide range across all genres. Four floors and a clearly marked directory. Science fiction and fantasy is on the top floor, in the back corner (for all my SF guys and gals). I didn’t find a dedicated Contemporary Romance section, unless I missed it, but Colleen Hoover is still lurking around every corner.

Key thoughts: This is the kind of Waterstones that you can end up haunting for a few hours (I certainly did). There are escalators all the way to the top floor and stairs or a lift to come back down where the elevator isn’t available. It’s an old building and that gives the illusion of it being quite small inside, but keep moving through because there is a lot on display here. Some Waterstones have started looking a bit tired and forgotten, and others lack some thought and consideration to how they are laid out, but Nottingham has it sussed.

Waterstones Nottingham feels like somewhere you want to be, and as someone who can feel a bit self-conscious about sprawling out on a table and staking claim while I write, I really appreciated the relaxed and welcoming vibe.

I had a great time browsing my favourite genres, as well as discovering a couple titles outside of my comfort zone that I am very interested in. And if puzzles are your thing then they’ve currently got a great display right next to the first escalator. All very on brand and bookish.

Cafe: Situated on the 3rd floor, it’s a medium sized cafe with a good amount of space. I found a particularly nice little cubby by the window. I didn’t visit at a peak time so it was relatively quiet, but I can imagine it can get very busy during the afternoon. The view out onto the street is nice. Offering the usual food stuffs, I had a cinnamon bun and a diet coke. The staff were nice and I didn’t feel uncomfortable getting my laptop and work bits out. There are also toilets in the back corner.

Did you make a purchase? Yes. ‘Bored Gay Werewolf’ by Tony Santorella and ‘Spell Bound’ by F. T. Lukens.

All in all, I rate this Waterstones highly. Admittedly, not all Waterstones are created equally, and while some are going to be of more use for the Click+Collect function, Waterstones Nottingham is a destination, it’s a place to explore new reads and tap the spines of old faves, it’s somewhere to eat cinnamon buns, and to quietly work away on your laptop for an hour without fear of disruption or condemnation.

I don’t know if this series needs a rating scale? Maybe? Let’s start ballsy. I’m giving Waterstones Nottingham an 8.5/10.

Have you visited this location? Do yo agree with me?

Written by Sarah