What’s a book fair really like? Inside Bath’s pop-up book wonderland
If you’ve never been to a book fair before, you might picture something quiet, dusty, or intimidating — a place reserved for experts and collectors. Step inside the PBFA Bath Book Fair, and you’ll find something entirely different: a warm, welcoming world of stories, history, beautiful objects, passionate booksellers, and literary surprises around every corner.
On 27–28 June, the Provincial Booksellers Fairs Association (PBFA) brings more than 80 expert dealers from across the country to Bath Pavilion for a two-day celebration of second-hand and antiquarian books — and everyone is welcome.
It’s not just for collectors
You don’t need to be an expert, historian, or seasoned book hunter to enjoy a fair like this. Many visitors come simply because they love reading, browsing, or finding something unexpected.
Some are hunting for a birthday gift. Others come for the joy of leafing through old paper and the scent of a leather-bound spine.
You’ll find books at all kinds of prices — from £10 to several thousand — and every bookseller is happy to help, no matter your budget or knowledge.
What kinds of books will you find?
Almost every kind you can imagine:
Rare and antiquarian books, centuries old — for those who want to hold history in their hands
Beautiful vintage editions of favourite novels
Signed books by authors past and present
Classic children’s books and annuals from decades gone by
Books on everything from history and architecture to gardening, travel, cooking, and military life.
You might spot a Victorian etiquette guide. A tiny, leather-bound Shakespeare. A First World War soldier’s diary. Or a long-lost childhood favourite you haven’t seen in years.
That’s the magic: you never know what you’ll find — but something always finds you.
Meet the booksellers
What truly brings the fair to life are the booksellers. Each is an expert in their field, with decades of knowledge at their fingertips - and they’re friendly, passionate, and full of stories.
They’ll happily explain the history behind a book or help you track down something meaningful. It's this human connection that makes book fairs so special.
It’s not just shopping — it’s conversation, curiosity, and rediscovering the joy of paper and ink.
A book lover’s dream
There’s something deeply satisfying about leafing through old books. It slows you down. It connects you to the past. And every book has a story beyond the one written inside.
It’s like browsing a museum — except here, you’re encouraged to pick things up, turn the pages, and take your favourite pieces home.
A perfect day out in Bath
Whether you live locally or you’re visiting Bath for the weekend, the fair fits perfectly into your day.
Pop in for an hour or stay all morning, then head to one of Bath’s independent cafés for lunch, or explore the Roman Baths and nearby bookshops.
Entry is just £2 — less than a cup of coffee. The Pavilion is spacious, accessible, and easy to reach from anywhere in the city.
So what’s a book fair really like? It’s friendly, fascinating, full of surprises — and the perfect place to fall in love with books all over again. We hope to see you there.
PBFA Bath Book Fair
When: Friday 27 June (12pm–6pm) & Saturday 28 June (10am–4pm)
Where: Bath Pavilion, North Parade Road, Bathwick, Bath, BA2 4EU
Entry: Just £2