Astley Book Farm: The Most Magical Place on Earth

Growing up, I was obsessed with literature. While the West Midlands has plenty of literary tourist sites to explore, there were very few places that truly satiated my desire to be surrounded by books. When my family discovered Astley Book Farm, it was exactly what we had been searching for. Located just outside Bedworth, Warwickshire, this place is unlike any other. A converted farmhouse and adjoining barns fashioned into a rustic second-hand bookshop. The easiest way to get there is by car, though I personally have attempted and succeeded at wandering down the country roads (definitely would notrecommend this method). Surrounded by miles and miles of beautiful greenery and farmland, the Book Farm is one of the most quaint and peaceful places on earth. Entrance Sign, Astley Book Farm Walking into the store is like entering paradise; first, you need to wander past the “Ten Bob Barn”, which is full to the brim of books discounted to only 50p. Past there is the main entrance, adorned with a wonderful sign to warn off unwanted guests. Main Entrance, Astley Book Farm The farm has much more to offer; stocked with over 100,000 books, there is something for everyone. Beautiful vintage editions encased and preserved, rows and rows of fiction-specific shelves, and even collections of academic and leisure volumes. All of the books are fairly and affordably priced, and there are thousands of options for whatever reading taste comes browsing the collection. I have found some beautiful editions, both to help me throughout my degree, and for my personal collection. Similarly, there is a creatively allocated kid’s book section called the “Children’s Hayloft” on the first floor of the Book Farm. With the wonderfully painted stairs and the artsy decorations, as well as the Hayloft’s elevated separation from the rest of the store, the children’s section gives the illusion of a fun, little treehouse to explore. ‘Children’s Hayloft’, Astley Book FarmDuring one of my first visits, my ...