Waterstones

812 reviews

11A, Union Galleries, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3XD, United Kingdom

www.waterstones.com

+441179252274

About

Waterstones is a Book store located at 11A, Union Galleries, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3XD, United Kingdom. It has received 812 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday9AM-6PM
Tuesday9AM-6PM
Wednesday9AM-6PM
Thursday9AM-6PM
Friday11AM-5PM
Saturday9AM-6PM
Sunday9AM-6PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Waterstones: 11A, Union Galleries, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3XD, United Kingdom

  • Waterstones has 4.6 stars from 812 reviews

  • Book store

  • "Relaxing atmosphere aided and abetted by what seems almost like a pop-up coffee shop and plenty of places to sit and read"

    "The last big bookshop in Bristol since Foyles is about to move to a smaller shop"

    "The book i wanted on how to save money on couponing was not on the shelves"

    "Best retail therapy experience around"

    "Took my youngest here to buy whatever book she fancied"

Reviews

  • Simon Curtis

Relaxing atmosphere aided and abetted by what seems almost like a pop-up coffee shop and plenty of places to sit and read. Often do events with authors which can be fascinating. Their personalised book recommendations are always most welcome too. Don't just sell books and coffee either. They sell cards, some stationary and some great board games. If you want your book buying to be accompanied by an experience and be able to take a proper look at what you are buying the day you buy it (your young children may not stand for anything else), rather than just being a point and click and wait a day or two thing, then this place is for you. If you are just going to browse to then buy online keep in mind that bookshops may not be here for us forever if that is what we are all going to do with them.

  • Robert Charman

The last big bookshop in Bristol since Foyles is about to move to a smaller shop. This place is enormous and has a very good selection of books, games and gift ideas. I understand that stock might be moved around from time to time but when I last visited there were sections of the shop that were not identifiable until you looked at the shelves themselves where others had signs visible from some distance away. The staff are friendly and will help if you ask but won't bother you if you don't. They can order books in reasonably quickly if they don't have it in stock.

  • Lorraine Burns

The book i wanted on how to save money on couponing was not on the shelves.i asked at the till if there were any books on the subject in stock,he looked on the computer ,found one in German. I said"i don't speak German! He said to go on ebay or amazon! I want to support the high street.to pysìcaly touch a book to have a look at it first to see if i want it. There is a good choice of other books. I also wanted books on psychic mediums and angels but where it should have been,was About whitches. There is a little cafe there.

  • Sophie Daniels

Best retail therapy experience around. I hadn't been for a while but went in after a stressful morning in the office and it was just the perfect tonic. From the aroma of fresh coffee beans combined with the joyful, inspiring collection of beautiful books of all genre, its one of my favourite santuarys in Broadmead and a great place for gifts. I literally spent my whole lunch hour purusing and purchasing and could have spent much longer (and more money). If only all shopping experiences were like this.

  • Andy Bollan

Took my youngest here to buy whatever book she fancied. If your child says "Can I look for a book?" The answer is always going to be yes. She looked for Good Omens by Gaiman and Pratchett, which she got along with American Gods. I had a scone and a coffee while she had 10 minutes of joy. The team in both the coffee and book areas were friendly and helpful. Thank you so much for your time and help.

  • Joris Haghnegahdar

Waterstones is one of those places that you just can't get tired of. The staff are so friendly, the store is always tidy and clean. One of the best places to buy books and take a chill pill with their delicious and pretty made drinks and food. Very cute place to go on a date too, recommend 100%. This bookstore also has a LOT of books. You're sure to find what you're looking for here!

  • Josephine Kammacher-Reich

I was having trouble finding a book that I needed so I went to the desk and asked, the girl knew exactly where the book was and had an encyclopedic knowledge of the author. She recommended the second book by the same author and so I bought both. I was really impressed by her extensive knowledge and with her friendly customer service. I love the books! Thank you

  • James Pearson

All Waterstones are worthy of visiting as they vary, not only in the buildings they occupy (Birmingham New Street, Oxford and Reading are of note - beautiful locations!), but also because the selection of books and other related products are often tailored as well. The Bristol store is bigger than one initially realises and carries a vast selection for all tastes.

  • Sarah West

Went in 3 days before Christmas, on my lunch break to collect an online order (I know right, what was I thinking). The store was busy and the line really long so I groaned inwardly but the staff on the tills did an amazing job of keeping the line moving fast and another member of staff was giving out chocolates as people waited. They managed the rush really well.

  • Pamela Koehne-Drube

Very few books on the buy one get one half price offer, with limited choice in genre when they were. I've only seen a handful of new books on the front of store tables in the last five years! I could barely find a book that I haven't already owned for ages. Given how many amazing books have come out in paperback I was really disappointed by the stale offering.

  • Patrick Harris

Really good collection of books, from non-fiction and fiction titles to small bits and board games. Is large enough to not feel cramped despite high foot traffic coming off Broadmead and the Galleries. The queues are never too long either, so really nice to browse and buy some books. Staff are always very pleasant and friendly too.

  • Gemma

Store is brilliant, plenty of books available. The store is clean, tidy and well organised. There is a lovely children's area, with a table to keep he children amused with activities. The cafe was nice. Good price and range of products, but was disappointed that there was no bread available due to the delivery not arriving.

  • Jasmine Price

Closing times on Google need to be updated. Walked 3 miles to collect a delivery for the shop to be closed at 6.15pm when opening times said till 8pm. Prior that I had to contact customer services to see where my order was as had no update, not even in junk mail . Was told it has been there waiting for over a week

  • Claire Latchem

By far my favourite Waterstones in Bristol. Every time I go in there it feels like I’m in a cosy Christmas movie, stacked to the rafters with stories waiting to be read. Staff are on-hand for help but not pushy. The new fiction section is always super varied. The reward scheme is great too if you’re a regular. 5*

  • Alan Norman

This is by far. Far the most aesthetically pleasing waterstones I've been to and I've Only been in 4 others. A member of staff was went above. And beyond to aid us in trying to find a specific book for our son. She was unable to find. It but provided us with enough information about the books. In the series.

  • angelina mansare

They no longer have a side or craft area for children making it less child friendly, alo they no longer have a glass water container out in the cafe for people to just have a glass of their own free will. You now have to ask for a glass of water. So me in my view you've gone down in customer satisfaction.

  • Kyle Lear

Love a good bookshop. Waterstones here has its own little cafe, which is actually rather nice! Lots of chairs dotted around for people to sample books before buying. You are never pressured or feel like you are being watched, which makes me want to buy books here. Feels more personal than buying on Amazon

  • Oh My Hades

Nice open space with a massive selection of books, staff have always been really nice and helpful. They're always happy to oder a book in for you if they don't have it, and are very knowledgeable about their stock so if you don't know what you want, they will. Always recommend coming in

  • Amy

I can never find a staff member to ask a question and I felt the tone of the person on the till was a bit off and was being a bit short with me. Nobody who works there looks happy in there ya know? Makes me question whether they're treated well, or overworked and under paid? I dunno.

  • Tania Brueford

Staff are always incredibly helpful and knowledgeable even when I have no idea of the author I'm looking for !!! The store is always very tidy and the staff even apologise if what I'm looking for is out of stock. One of my favourite shops to buy from both online and instore

  • Kelly Moore

Seriously one of the best waterstones I've ever been to. Staff are very helpful. Everything is laid out in an easy to understand fashion. They have a play area for kids. The whole bookstore doubles as a cafe and there are plenty of plugs to charge phones and computers.

  • Melissa

You are sure to find something to your liking with such a large selection of books, games, toys, and even some graphic novels. The café has a varied selection of treats, and the coffee is really good. I can't commend the staff enough for being lovely and helpful.

  • Kathryn Hall

Huge collection of books! I didn’t find what I wanted here, but their Star Wars collection was the best I’ve seen in Waterstones. I could spend all day in here! Found the entrance to the store from the street confusing; the doors look liked fire exit doors …

  • A M

Nice enough. Never have the book I want, which is probably more my rubbish choice in books, ordering isn't a problem with them they can place it for you, but if I've got time to wait for delivery I'll buy it online for much cheaper because they aren't cheap.

  • Will Falconer

Huge variety of books in a large space. Pre Christmas queue would be shorter if click and collect was dealt with separately as matching orders to customers appears to be quite difficult. Friendly and efficient service if you've already found your purchase

  • Kate Mitchell

Such a fab book shop, they're very friendly and helpful, ready to do what they can to get the customer what they need, and now they have a cafe where people sit with laptops, books to read or coursework, we love books and the range of kids books is great.

  • Gordon Hector

I love Waterstones, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. There is a vast selection of books to suit all ages. There is also an excellent coffee shop with a good variety of drinks and snacks. At the time of writing, there is a sale across the bookshop.

  • Martin William Houghton-Evans

Really great selection of all types of book. Kids area was very nice and calm. Cafe was lovely. Only slight let down were the toilets, I expected them to be in better shape and a bit cleaner as they were locked away and you had to get a code to get in

  • Annette Cowley

Nicely laid out, warm and inviting. Helpful and knowledgeable staff. Nice refreshment area with comfy seating so you can enjoy a good read and snack. Lost one star for the appalling toilet facilities, a very unpleasant experience not to be repeated.

  • James Oldale

Not quite a lovely old indie bookshop (obviously, as its a chain) but it's as near most of us get and it tries hard. Great, knowledgeable staff, good range of books... not all 'Best Sellers'... and a pleasant cafe where you can browse and nibble.

  • Veronika Dudas

My favorite place. Because it's not only a cafe shop , but also a librari. You are surrounded by peace and quiet. I usually relax here, in the company of a cup of tea and a good book. Of course, there are times when a cookie is included. …

  • James

An honest review, I'm not a huge fan of books but my girlfriend loves them, a vast array of different books and if you read books you know waterstones lovely place but I couldn't find any comic books, but great for readers of all ages

  • Wayne Moreton

Well it's a Waterstones but at least you are served with a genuine smile and helpful advice rarer than rocking horse.......nowadays,but after all it is Bristol,so glad to be born a Bristolian( there must be a God somewhere) cheers Puc

  • Michael Sewell

I love this branch of Waterstone's. The layout is ideal for easy browsing and it has a fantastic range in stock all the time. they also have interesting and thought provoking themed tables that always encourage a purchase or two :)

  • Rob Belsten

Great range of books to satisfy everyone's needs, odd to see people asleep with books in their laps, it's not a library, buy your books and take them home to read, also this shop was way too hot, even my girls wanted to get out.

  • Chris J

This is a nice Waterstones to hang around in - ground floor has a cafe alongside a kids play area with slide and dressing up stuff that kept dad and 3yo daughter amused for at least an hour while mum built up a pile of books :)

  • Joshua Hadley

I love visiting Waterstones as its always so welcoming, especially when I don't know what to read next as the staff are always so good at suggesting a book or author, or finding a book you can't find yourself. Love that place!

  • Mia Smith

Waterstones is always a pleasure. The Christmas stock was plentiful and there is something for everyone, not just books but also something for everyone in books too. The staff were friendly and efficient - what's not to like.

  • peter hall

I love walking in here and breathing in the smell of new books. Staff are friendly here and seem to be genuine book lovers which is becoming rarer in my experience. Thry do a decent coffee in the little coffee shop too.

  • Helen Cross

I recently got to meet one of my favourite authors here, the staff are always helpful. They have a great range of books and a cafe, so you can read and have a drink at the same time. One of my favourite shops to visit.

  • Michael Corbett

I did not buy any books on this visit but I used the cafe for the first time and I must say, it was brilliant! Nice coffee and a quiet environment (I stayed between 9:30 and 10:30am). I believe they have free WiFi too.

  • Mary C

There is a big selection of books and little gifts and also a kids area Lately they opened also a little coffee inside that had good cakes. The staff has been always helpful and polite. My favourite library in bristol.

  • Jacquie Withers

What a great bookstore Waterstones in Bristol is. Huge, great selection of kids' lit, great selection of art and design books, coffee shop, good, calm atmosphere and comfortable browsing. Five stars well deserved.

  • B C.

What a great place!! Love the interior...it’s just the perfect place for weekends! Apart from books they also have board games and unique products. Would recommend if you are looking for some interesting gifts!

  • Paul Sayer

Always Liked this Place as they've always got a Book of what I've Ordered from there. Would Certainly Recommend this Place to anyone else who might be interested in going there for a Book . …

  • Deanna Sartin

I love Waterstones, great atmosphere if you want to sit and read or study with a cafe that offers student discount. Really helpful staff every time I've gone in looking for specific books or authors.

  • Tracy WADSWORTH

A lovely store selling books on every subject as well as stationary,puzzles and games. Nice cafe serving hot and cold drinks as well food. Staff are very helpful and polite. Recommend this store

  • Samantha Bernard

If anyone wanted to know what ‘Book Heaven’ looks like please go here!!! An amazing place with loads and loads of books. The choices are unbelievable and one day isn’t enough! Loved this place.

  • Missy Ingleton

I love that there is a cafe inside and you can sip tea and browse the books. It's all set out well, I like looking through the gifts as well as the books, especially the Harry Potter section!

  • Andy B

Fantastic service!! I went in to purchase a book but they didn't have it in stock but were able to order it in for me and it arrived in 2 days. Very helpful staff and a great atmosphere

  • Denis Vella

So good to visit a bookshop which still sells such a wide range of books. The smell of the printed paper and the feel of the pages in your hands, while surrounded by books is great.

  • A. V.

Beautiful book shop where you can have a coffee and read a book. They also offer a very well chosen selection of classics ornated elegantly. They also have a stationery section.

  • Aulia Dewantari

One of my favorite places in the city! Fairly complete collection of various book genres. Friendly staffs. Cool ambience. There is a cafe inside so you could hang as well.

  • Sy

My favourite place to go and relax. Beautiful children section, cafe and increíble variety books. The staff are always so helpful and the atmosphere is calm and enjoyable.

  • charlene williams

Great book shop with a wide range of books for young and old. A sofa to sit on if you fancy reading. Any book you want that they don't have can be ordered for collection.

  • Charlie Fearnley

I love the atmosphere of this shop. 10/10. I will purposely alter my route to walk through Waterstones when I'm in town and you can sit down with a coffee at their café

  • Louise Kolman

Always a lovely time visiting waterstones. I was looking for a specific book and the sales assistant looked all over to find it for me, so it was a wonderful service!

  • Anthony Scott

Love this store! Always have the books I'm looking for and if they don't they're happy to order them in. Really nice atmosphere. The staff are always friendly …

  • luke stephens

2ater stones is a great place to get any book you would like the knowlagable staff will help you with all that you need, they can also order In book that you need

  • B

Excellent Waterstones in Bristol. Loved how spacious the shop was & the Sci-Fi Section in the corner was a delight for a bookworm such as myself ! …

  • Tom Seaman

There's a good selection of books here organised in genre's in a wide open spaces in between each shelf. There's comfortable seating available in normal times.

  • Deborah Miles

Went here today so helpful managed to be helped by a young man I oreded to books and purchased one amazing store felt very chilled also had a coffee also great

  • Jess Mezo

Quite a good range of books, nice location, friendly staff and nice atmosphere. They are always happy to order specific books for you which is a huge plus.

  • Stuart Elks

Very large Waterstones in a good location in central Bristol. Nice cafe inside, plus a small area for children to play. Book prices tend to be a bit high.

  • Stu Stewart

Great bookstore with a wide selection of different types of books, games and toys, in a very central location. They even have a lovely cafe inside.

  • Louise Blackwell

My son wanted a few books. We were able to get one financial book, but they did not have a book to aid him on speaking Vietnamese. Friendly staff.

  • Ollie Ballard

Nice coffee but really busy and surprisingly noisy. Only visited for a meeting over coffee but enjoyed perusing the massive selection afterwards.

  • Jane Pightling

Small branch of this well known chain. Helpful friendly staff. Coffee shop with seating inside and outdoors. You can pick up one orders here too.

  • Martyn Vaughan

Met up with family. Sister collected a book she had reserved. Bright cheerfully place with a coffee/cake place inside. Couldn't say no really!!

  • stephen

I love Waterstones! Loads of great recommendations from the booksellers to find the perfect book. And the selection of games is great too!

  • emma beresford

My son buys his Manga comic novels here. Did yoy know they may have been translated but still read from back to front.... Fascinating...

  • Sara Blammon

Good selection of books in clearly-marked sections. Small cafe if you fancy a coffee and a cake. Informed staff who are happy to help.

  • Jason Rincewind Anthony-Rowlands

Large open and light and airy store. Massive selection of books and a great cafe. Would definitely revisit when I am next in Bristol.

  • Claudia Dumitrascu

Such an enjoyable place .loved the café as well . yam yam sweets to enjoy with your coffee and a book to read.. perfect …

  • Angel

My favourite cafe, lovely staff and you've gotta love having a cup of tea and some cake whilst surrounded by books ☕ …

  • Gary Insley

Great bookshop with a cafe and books by the dozen. Always a good atmosphere in here and the staff are always very helpful

  • Sukhvinder Ubhi

Always a great experience in Waterstones with the bonus of an in house coffee shop that does a nice oatmilk latte:-)

  • Shawn Spencer-Smith

Visited using my wheelchair for the first time and was able to browse easily. The cafe is accessible but very busy.

  • Tina Tilling

Could the odd displays eg like for Manga , even a cardboard cut out would be good. As it's not very well displayed.

  • James Lockyer

I find that many book shops are difficult to navigate these days and why do they all have to be coffee shops too?

  • Zoe Powell

Lovely bookshop. Staff in the cafe lovely. Enjoyed my perfect half strength hot chocolate and jam and scones.

  • Ashley Brookesmith

Great selection of books, helpful staff. Cafe too. Great tables of books to browse. Neat layout of the shop.

  • Ben Walker

Huge book store, great variety. Kind of hard to find certain things but really comfortable. Cafe was nice.

  • Nel Pearce

Excellent help from newest member of staff! And lovely quiet environment to browse through collections

  • Ale Nard

Always a pleasure to enter this place and explore it for a while and come out with an interesting read

  • Spon

I was impressed by the amount of selection of Manga they had here, must go every time I'm in Bristol!

  • Michael Higgins

Just too expensive ,no decent offers , staff good , selection of books decent, nice to browse store

  • Robert Britton

Always able to find a book that I am interested in. Worthwhile visit. Came away with three books.

  • Heidi Rogers

Great place and diverse range of books. Managed to find what we wanted with ease. Would recommend

  • CHRISTIAN FRÉDÉRIC NJIOMO NANSI

Casual hot chocolate with cream in a cosy and librarian environment on an cool summer afternoon.

  • Gem Hancock

Amazing to find a little cafe here,to eat surrounded by books you can check out later,awesome!

  • Ecann

Quite and lovely bookshop. Find what im looking for all the time and nice and calm staff.

  • Laura

Had a fantastic book launch tonight. Edouard (I think!) was absolutely lovely.

  • Mark K.

Always a nice atmosphere. This one in Broadmead also has a café which is good.

  • Andrew Cartwright

Tremdous range of books in this well organised store staffed by book lovers.

  • Eliot Collins

Large, tidy, well laid out. Friendly service and typical Waterstone's prices

  • Wendi Spiller

I could spend hours in this shop, book heaven plus lots of great gifts.

  • Andrew Shorley

Great collection of books and a few signed ones too. Staff were lovely

  • Agnieszka Krzosek

As always helpful staff and lots of gift ideas. Cafe is a bonus …

  • 刘贝

Love the cafe here. Great place to work or chat and friendly staff.

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