While we are always up for visiting the charming bookshops in Glasgow, Scotland, hides a gem that is on an entirely different level. Wigtown, the official National Book Town of Scotland, is a literary hub packed with hundreds of thousands of titles alongside a vibrant scene of music, theatre, and culture. And it’s the perfect place to visit this World Book Day on March 5!
Located in the Machars area of Dumfries & Galloway, roughly a two-hour drive from Glasgow, Wigtown offers a blend of literary magic and breathtaking scenery. While the town has a history stretching back a millennium, it was officially named as the National Book Town in 1998. Once a vital river crossing, Wigtown saw a decline in the 19th century, but its literary rebirth has sparked a wave of renovations and thriving new businesses.
Visitors can spend their time browsing the shelves, wandering the medieval town centre, or joining in on local festivities. And if you visit between Easter and September, be sure to catch the book market held every Saturday.
The Bookshops of Wigtown
Now for the main attraction: Wigtown’s 16 distinct bookshops, including an Airbnb where you can run your own bookshop.
One of the most iconic spots is undoubtedly The Open Book. This isn’t just a shop; it’s an Airbnb that offers a “bookshop holiday”. Guests stay in a self-catering apartment above the store and take on the responsibility of running the shop during their visit. Whether you want to introduce creative new displays or simply enjoy the quiet life of a bookseller, the experience is entirely up to you.
The Open Book has been welcoming guests for a decade and is so popular that it currently has a two-year waitlist. However, it’s always worth checking for cancellations if you’re hoping to snag a spot sooner. To date, over 450 guests from as far as Beijing and Hawaii have checked in to live out their literary fantasies.
Another must-visit is the Reading Glasses Bookshop & Cafe, and its bright pink exterior is just the beginning. Inside, you’ll find cosy sofas and reading nooks perfect for getting lost in a story. This quirky shop prides itself on being the “only women’s bookshop in Britain,” with its front room dedicated exclusively to books written by and about women.
Annual Events in Wigtown
Wigtown Spring Weekend Taking place every May, this weekend celebrates all things literature. Expect to find a variety of booksellers, fascinating talks, exhibitions, and live music. Dates are typically released in mid-March, so stay alert for the next announcement.
Community Festival Held every July, the Wigtown Community Festival is a local favourite with a heavy focus on family-friendly activities.
The Wigtown Book Festival Since its inception in 1998, this has grown into one of the UK’s most prestigious literary gatherings. In 2026, the festival runs from September 25 to October 4, featuring a massive program of over 200 events across music, food, visual arts, and theatre. This year’s lineup even features the legendary Alan Cumming.
With its peaceful atmosphere and endless shelves to explore, Wigtown is an easy sell for anyone needing a quiet day trip or a unique Scottish staycation.