Exploring Aardvark Books: A Cosy Retreat for Avid Readers
2024-08-20
Aardvark Books offers an experience that delights all who visit. It is a bookshop located between Leintwardine and Knighton. It is around 14 kilometres from the Judges’ Lodging and 8 kilometres from Hopton Castle. The foundation of Aardvark Books could be dated back to 2004 but the move to the current location in Brampton Bryan happened in 2007. Today, Aardvark Books is more than just a bookstore. It is a destination that blends the love of literature with a sense of history, community, and creativity.
A Booklover’s Paradise
Aardvark Books is a haven for book lovers, offering an extensive and carefully curated selection of over 50,000 titles. Located within the Welsh Marches and hills of Herefordshire, the bookshop is a refuge for walkers, hikers, and cyclists who cherish the company of books and the arts. Here, they will find an array of second-hand books, old records, maps, gifts, and many other valuable items. The shelves are brimming with literary treasures, making it a paradise for anyone who finds joy in the written word.
The Historic Setting
Aardvark Books offers visitors a unique blend of literary delight and historical ambience. The bookshop is within old granaries dating back to the 19th century. The surrounding village, on the other hand, has an even deeper history.
Brampton Bryan is a small village with a history extending to the Roman period. It played an important role in the first English Civil War, from 1642 to 1646. During this time, Brampton Bryan Castle went under siege twice in a short span of time. At the end of the second siege, the castle was burned and sacked.
Community and Events
Aardvark Books serves as a vibrant community hub and regularly hosts a variety of events. From author talks and book signings to poetry readings and workshops, the store fosters a lively and engaging environment where ideas are shared and passions are ignited.
There will be some future events held at Aardvark Books. The August Bank Holiday Car Boot is set to take place in August, offering a fantastic opportunity for treasure hunters and bargain seekers to explore a wide range of items. As the year draws to a close, the Aardvark Christmas Fair in December will usher in the festive season.
Supporting Local Artists and Crafts
In addition to its impressive book collection, Aardvark Books proudly supports the local creative community by showcasing the work of talented artists and craftsmen. The store features a diverse array of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and artwork, providing a platform for local creators to display and sell their creations.
There have been several exhibitions held in the bookshop in the past. “Tame Artworks” and "It Takes a Village" exhibitions were held in the past. There is also an upcoming exhibition happening in September by nine artists from the Bedstone Art Group.
Visiting Aardvark Books Cafe
The experience at Aardvark Books is complete with a visit to its cosy cafe, where visitors can take a break from browsing and enjoy a selection of homemade cakes, fresh coffee, and light lunches. The cafe is open on all days of the week except Mondays. People can pop into the cafe anytime between 10 am and 4 pm. There is seating available outside if the weather conditions are fine.
Aardvark Books Cafe serves Trumper's leaf teas and savoury ground coffees, perfect for a refreshing pause. Their melting Marimba hot chocolate is also a must-try. Their selection of delicious homemade cakes is baked with love, and they include gluten-free almond and fruit cake, Victoria sponge, chocolate cake, and lemon drizzle loaf.
If you're in the mood for something more substantial, the cafe also offers a variety of light lunches and snacks. Their toasted sandwiches are another popular choice, available with gluten-free options.
In short, Aardvark Books is more than a simple bookshop. It is a haven for hikers, bikers, and booklovers alike. After a visit to the bookshop and cafe, you might as well check out the surrounding countryside or even consider a nightly stay at The Knighton Hotel, which is less than 20 minutes away by car.
