Literary Locations In England Every Book Lover Needs To Visit 

If you find peace within the pages of a romance novel, intrigue amongst non-fiction or mystic through a fantasy saga – exploring some of the most vibrant and historic literary locations in England should be one reason to look up from the pages.

With a rich history and picturesque landscapes, England has long been a source of inspiration for some of the greatest creatives humanity has ever known. From the timeless works of Shakespeare that began in the beautiful town of Stratford Upon Avon to the enchanting tales of Beatrix Potter which were inspired by Lake District, the country is dotted with places that have shaped the course of English Literature through the centuries. 

For book lovers, these sites offer a unique opportunity to step into the worlds created by their favourite authors, to walk the same streets and explore the same settings that influenced iconic works. 

So what are you waiting for? Take a journey through cities, towns and villages that are a testament to the enduring power of the written word and deepen your appreciation for the stories that have captured hearts and minds across generations.

Ten Beloved Literary Locations In England

Baggins Book Bazaar, Rochester 

Nestled in the underappreciated town of Rochester, Baggins Book Bazaar is England’s largest second-hand and rare bookshop – and thus, a treasure trove for bibliophiles. With over half a million books to read on every conceivable topic, this literary haven is a labyrinth of bookshelves, narrow passageways and creaking wooden floors, that create an almost mysterious atmosphere where time seems to stand still as you get lost in the endless possibilities of the written word.

Cecil Court, London

Tucked away in the heart of Central London, Cecil Court is one of the best literary locations in England – often referred to as “Booksellers’ Row.” This picturesque alley, with its Victorian shopfronts exudes an ambience of allure with whispers of past visitors like T.S. Eliot and Arthur Ransome. The twenty or so shops that line the court specialize in rare books, first editions, maps, and prints, catering to collectors, scholars, and casual browsers alike. Whether you’re searching for something specific or simply enjoying the nostalgia of a bygone era, Cecil Court is a must-visit for anyone with a love for books and history.

Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester 

There is nothing more iconic in the modern British literary landscape than the magical world of Harry Potter. J.K Rowling revolutionised the children’s fantasy genre and her words remain just as enchanting decades later. So, it is not surprise that the craze to visit book and filming locations around the country has never died down. However, while many run to platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross for their easy fix, the real place bookworms should seek out is Gloucester Cathedral.

As one of the oldest religious sites, Gloucester Cathedral has witnessed great moments in British history, including the crowning of King Henry III in 1216 and the burial of King Edward II in 1327. But perhaps more importantly to current era, it is the site of many Hogwarts scenes through the first, second and sixth Harry Potter films. 

Jane Austen’s House, Chawton 

Within the walls of The Chawton Estate, in the idyllic Hampshire village of Chawton, Austen’s genius comes to life. The charming 17th-century cottage was Austen’s final home, and it is here that she wrote, revised, and published her major novels: Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. 

Today, the home-turned-museum is filled with personal artifacts, letters, and early editions of her works, offering an intimate glimpse into Austen’s daily life and creative process. Visitors can explore the rooms where she lived and worked, stroll through the quaint English garden she once tended, and feel the presence of the great woman who brought us some of the most enduring characters in English literature.

Lake District 

The Lake District, with its dramatic landscapes of rolling hills, deep valleys, and shimmering lakes, has been a source of inspiration for writers for centuries. Most famously, it was the home of William Wordsworth, who wrote much of his greatest poetry at Dove Cottage in Grasmere. The cottage now exhibits his personal belongings, manuscripts, and letters. 

Meanwhile, just a short distance away is Hill Top House, the former home of Beatrix Potter that inspired her enchanting world of Peter Rabbit. 

Oxford

When you think ‘significant literary locations in England’, Oxford may not immediately come to mind. However, the city is synonymous with names such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll – all of whom had their creativity nurtured at the historic colleges and libraries of world-renowned University of Oxford.

Tolkien and Lewis were members of the literary discussion group known as the Inklings, which met regularly at The Eagle and Child pub to share and critique their writings, including early drafts of The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. Meanwhile, Carroll, a mathematics professor at Christ Church College, found inspiration in the city’s enchanting atmosphere for his creation of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. 

The iconic architecture of Oxford, combined with its vibrant intellectual culture, continues to be a pilgrimage site for book lovers and scholars, making it a cornerstone of England’s literary heritage.

Poet’s Corner in Westminster Abbey, London

Located in the south transept of Westminster Abbey, Poet’s Corner is one of the most revered literary locations in England. Since the burial of Geoffrey Chaucer in 1400, this hallowed space has become the final resting place for many of the nation’s greatest writers, poets, and playwrights. In addition to Chaucer, visitors can pay their respects to Charles Dickens, Rudyard Kipling, and Thomas Hardy. 

Memorials also honour literary figures like Lewis Carroll, the Brontë sisters, William Blake and Oscar Wilde, ensuring their legacies endure and echo the greatness of their words, which resonate through the ages.

Shakespeare’s Globe, London

For a true immersion into the world of the Bard, there’s no better place than Shakespeare’s Globe in London. This meticulously reconstructed theatre offers a glimpse into how audiences would have experienced Shakespeare’s plays during the Elizabethan era. With regular performances of his famous works, the Globe is not just a place of historical significance but a living, breathing celebration of Shakespeare’s enduring influence on literature.

Stratford Upon Avon 

Beyond the fact that this one of the most beautiful towns in England, the birthplace of William Shakespeare is a must-visit for any literary pilgrim. This charming destination breathes the spirit of his work around every corner and still preserves important sites in his association, including his childhood home, burial site, and wife Anne Hathaway’s cottages. Strolling through these historic locations offers a unique insight into the early life of one of the greatest writers in the English language.

The British Library, London 

Home to over 170 million items that make it the second largest library in the world, The British Library is one of the most important literary locations in England. It is a significant repository of knowledge and literary history. Among its treasures are the original manuscripts of many classic works, the Magna Carta, the notebook of Leonardo da Vinci, and handwritten Beatles lyrics. For book lovers who want to delve a little depper, the library’s exhibitions, reading rooms, and the iconic King’s Library Tower are awe-inspiring places to explore.