Albion Beatnik
34a Walton Street Oxford OX2 6AA
Don’t come in here looking for the latest releases and chart-toppers. Instead, as you’d half expect in the eccentric Jericho district, this bookstore is a little different, stocking literature with a special emphasis on beat poetry, jazz, pop music, travel writing and modern literature – unusually not arranged alphabetically, but chronologically. There are lots of American editions – because they have great covers, says Dennis, the quirky owner. But be warned, it is an anti-WiFi zone: "We think the internet is great, but the written word is better". Dennis has great coffee, too – it may not appear quite like a café at first but don’t be afraid to ask! Regular visitors even get to pick their own mug... Rumour has it there are also impromptu jazz, poetry readings, folk and comedy nights. One of the last independent bookstores in Oxford, this is the perfect place to read, relax and all in good, like-minded company with a cool atmosphere. The interior – crammed bookcases alongside a scattering of cosy chairs – feels similar to a front room and provides the perfect setting to read your newest book.
