The Book Market

Exeter UNESCO City of Literature’s annual Book Market is a landmark event for literature lovers and literary businesses across Devon, as Catherine Hurcombe discovered.

Following the success of last year’s Book Market, the 2026 event found a new home at Exeter Quayside, where it invited readers to explore a series of interactive activities, author talks, silent reading spaces, and stalls from local booksellers.

By the time my friend and I arrived just after 11am, the tents were already heaving with eager customers perusing the different offerings. Vendors covered every topic from local folklore to murder mysteries, with second-hand and antiquarian books available from shops such as The Dawlish Bookshop or Graham York Rare Books.

Once we managed to tear ourselves away from the books themselves, there was still plenty to see and do. It was great to have so many different ways to get involved – whether we just wanted to sit and hear from local authors, wander around the stalls, or try out some writing for ourselves. First up, we tried our hands at some codebreaking with Prodigy Escapes Puzzle Experiences, before dabbling in some creative writing prompts by Raw Writing. Naturally, we had to stop for some bookish goodies, browsing phenomenal book-themed jewellery by Book on a Hook, and picking up a sweet treat from The Cakery’s speciality literature collection!

When we fancied an escape from the bustle of the main stalls, it was a quick hop onto Butt’s Ferry for a free ride across the river, where we found some peace and quiet in Exeter Custom House. Here, visitors could explore one of Exeter’s rich, historical sites, join a special edition of Silent Book Club, and participate in bibliotherapy sessions. I particularly enjoyed looking around the GWR Literary Artwork Gallery, showcasing the highlights of Exeter’s bookish history (which many may recognise from the walkways of Exeter’s St David’s Station!)

Once again, Exeter’s Book Market provides a great day out for attendees of all ages, and it was great to see so much enthusiasm for it in its new location. I’ll be sure to keep an eye out for next year’s event, and in the meantime, I’ve found plenty of new local bookshops to visit!