Word on the Water
Sail away to new worlds on a floating library!
One of the most unique ways to explore London is by walking along the city’s network of canals.
Simply pick a canal and follow it in whichever direction you wish, and it will take you to quirky independent cafes and restaurants, creative local shops and tunnels full of street art.
You will also see many boats of different shapes and sizes, often uniquely decorated and captained by eccentric characters.
One of the most special of them all is Word on the Water, a Dutch barge from the 1920s that doubles as a bookstore and a creative events space!
Word on the Water has had a storied past.
Previously nicknamed ‘The London Bookbarge’ by locals, the library was never in the same place for long, being forced by city regulations to find a new mooring every couple of weeks. Then, they nearly sank a few years ago as the interior flooded with water.
Now, the beloved bookstore has claimed a permanent mooring in a canal next to Coal Drops Yard, a beautiful shopping and dining space near St. Pancras.
On the exterior of the boat, there are shelves of books next to an eclectic arrangement of plans, string lights and an antique typewriter.
You’ll also notice a stage set up on the roof of the barge, which often hosts musicians, open-mic events, slam poetry readings and talks on art, technology, feminism and politics.
The boat's interior is super cozy, with patrons often standing shoulder to shoulder and shuffling carefully to make their way deeper into the library.
People are also encouraged to sit down and spend some time with a book perched on the many sofas.
There is a stove in the winter to add that extra layer of comfort. Sometimes, a cute dog will be on duty!
Once you find the perfect book to take home, pay for it outside in the cashier’s stall and find a cozy spot along the canal to read or grab a bite to eat somewhere else in Coal Drops Yard.
You could also get a cute little tote bag to commemorate your visit.
You will find both new and used books from every genre, fiction and non-fiction.
However, they don’t really differentiate which one is which.
The pricing crucially is standard to other bookstores, which is a great plus!
Word on the Water also has an online shop, which also supports other independent bookstores. However, you should definitely visit the barge in person to get the full experience and catch an event!
Location:
Regent Canal’s Towpath (next to the Lighterman restaurant) London N1C 4LW
Written by Mika Sudjarwo