Books / News

Bristol bookshop named best in the South West

By Dom Waters  Friday Mar 14, 2025

A Bedminster bookshop has been named the best in the South West in the British Book Awards 2025 Independent Bookshop of the Year awards.

Since opening in 2018, Storysmith has become a staple on North Street, not just selling books but hosting a variety of inspiring events.

 

EatDrink24/7 Launch Party is back on July 8 2026!
Exclusive collabs from Bristol’s favourite food vendors, available for one night only. Be first to grab your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 guide – plus every ticket comes with a free limited-edition beer can.
@bristol247 A Bedminster book shop has been voted the best in the South West. Owners of StorySmith Books, Dan and Emily Ross said: “Bristol has some really great bookshops. It’s really nice to be recognised for what we’re doing specifically.” Visit Bristol247.com to read the full story. #bristol #bristol247 #booktok #storysmithbooks #bedminster #award ♬ original sound – Bristol24/7

Co-owners Dan and Emily Ross told Bristol24/7 that among a number of “really great bookshops” across our city, “it’s really nice to be recognised for what we’re specifically doing here”.

“They wanted innovation and evidence that you’re impacting your community,” said Dan and Emily on the judging criteria.

“Selling books in a more exciting way than maybe we used to in the high street which I hope is something that we’re able to do just through enthusiasm alone.”

Roy helps herd visitors to the right book – photo: Dom Waters

All photos & video: Dom Waters

Read next:

Our newsletters emailed directly to you
I want to receive (tick as many as you want):
I'm interested in (for future reference):
Marketing and Privacy Policy

Bristol24/7 will use the information provided on this form to send you marketing from Bristol24/7 and selected advertising partners. Your data will not be passed onto third parties. By completing this form, you are consenting to our use of your data for marketing purposes via email.


We will only use your information in accordance with our privacy policy, which can be viewed here - www.bristol247.com/privacy-policy/ - you can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected]. We will treat your information with respect.


We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

EATDRINK24/7 LAUNCH PARTY
CALLING ALL FOODIES!

Bristol's only truly independent food & drink guide is back, and we're throwing a party to celebrate on July 8 2026 at Wiper and True Brewery & Taproom, Old Market.

  • Exclusive collaborations from Bristol's favourite food vendors (you can't try these special dishes anywhere else)
  • Be the first to pick up your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 Guide
  • Music + great drinks
  • Each ticket includes a beer from Wiper and True, a special limited-edition can created just for the occasion.

One night only - don't miss out

Get Your Ticket

Related articles

You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Join the Better
Business initiative
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
* prices do not include VAT
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Enjoy delicious local
exclusive deals
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Wake up to the latest
Get the breaking news, events and culture in your inbox every morning

Are you sure you want to downgrade?

You will lose some benefits you currently enjoy.
Benefits you will lose: