Since its inception in 2021, the Book Market has become a staple in the city’s cultural calendar, uniting independent bookshops from across Devon to create a one-day book-filled haven in Exeter. The event continues to grow in popularity each year as more and more visitors flock to Exeter every June to immerse themselves in a world of stories, creativity, and community spirit as part of June Boom.
Whether you're an avid reader, a budding writer, or simply looking for a unique way to spend a summery Sunday, this event is not to be missed.
A Quality Event by the Quayside
This year, The Book Market is set to take over Exeter Quay across three distinct zones of cultural entertainment. Piazza Terracina will be abuzz with independent bookshops, Exeter Custom House will play host to free literary activities, and the Transit Shed will be set up as the perfect quayside spot to experience a series of engaging Author Talks from Devon’s diverse storytellers.
What to Expect
This year, 11 independent bookshops from across Devon will convene on Exeter Quay with a fantastic array that includes: pre-loved paperbacks, LGBTQ+ literature, and familiar folktales. Alongside the indie bookshops, visitors can expect a day packed with exciting and accessible activities including bite-sized bibliotherapy sessions, try-out-a-typewriter tasters, a Book Market exclusive session of Silent Book Club Exeter, and memoir-writing workshops. Food and drink offerings across the Quay will be open during The Book Market including; Veg Box, Boatyard Cafe & Bakery, Sundays, and Topsham Brewery & Taproom.
This year’s lineup of inspiring authors and free activities will be announced in the run up to Sunday 7th June, with Exeter City of Literature promising a stellar afternoon of stories and experiences at what is likely to be the charity’s most lively and expansive edition of the Book Market yet!
June Boom
June in Exeter is a month of vibrant events and activities as the city’s arts, culture, and creative industries band together to celebrate June Boom! The Book Market is included in this exciting roster of cultural activity across the city, and it takes place during a bumper weekend that includes the Exeter Comedy Festival and Respect Festival.
Meet the Booksellers
Among the confirmed bookshops are:
- Bookbag, Exeter, Exeter’s independent bookshop presents a wonderfully curated selection of books that celebrates local and global stories.
- Design for Today, Topsham, a small old school printing press with a love of mid-century design and books that inspire a sense of curiosity and playfulness.
- Gnash Comics, Ashburton, a community based Bookshop on the edge of Dartmoor specialising in graphic novels, comics, and manga.
- Seven Fables, Dulverton, a beautiful emporium for book and art lovers situated in the heart of Exmoor National Park.
The Old Queeriosity Shop, Plymouth a queer-run bookshop in Plymouth specialising in LGBTQIA+ literature, spanning fiction and non-fiction, poetry and children's books.
