They say: "The world of books is a precious resource: books are not commodities to be marketed on the shelves alongside baked beans. The range of books we offer gives you fast track entrance to a world of publishing outwith the mainstream, a world where independent publishers, small presses, new writers with no prior sales history, individuals producing their own zines all have an equal voice and sit happily alongside Stupid White Men or No Logo on the shelves."
43-45 West Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9DB. Map
Also well worth a visit is Edinburgh's most delectable second hand and antiquarian book shop, Armchair Books.
Armchair Books "...ekes out its intense and blustery existence on Edinburgh's hallowed West Port ... ancient home of booksellers. In view of the castle, above the Grassmarket, it bakes under the torrid Scottish sun. The dangers are manifold; Our overburdened shelves groan like masts in a squall, our threadbare and quasi-oriental rugs may distractingly catch the eye or foot. Books in the window may spontaneously burst into flames, and the Manager must be kept locked in at all times... Sporadically under feeble but sinister attack by the government, we struggle under goad of Fear, towards Beauty."
72-74 West Port, Edinburgh, EH1 2LE - map
Anyone with access to a vehicle/bicycle is encouraged to head out into the beautiful Pentland Hills to visit Little Sparta, Ian Hamilton-Finlay's art, sculpture and poetry garden.
