Hawkridge Books

Hawkridge Books stands as a distinguished antiquarian and second-hand bookshop nestled in the heart of Bakewell, Derbyshire. Run by the knowledgeable duo Irene and Joe Tierney, the shop provides a deeply personal, first-class service that larger retailers simply cannot replicate. Every volume on the shelves is carefully selected for both its condition and its capacity to captivate, ensuring that each visitor’s experience—whether in person at 14 Matlock Street or online through our mail-order system—feels curated and thoughtful.

Stepping inside, browsers discover over 10,000 books arranged across two spacious floors, categorised for easy navigation. The collection is broad yet exceptionally deep in key disciplines, offering everything from rare modern first editions to well-preserved reading copies. We take pride in describing every book with complete transparency; any faults are noted so that collectors and casual readers alike know precisely what they are adding to their libraries. This commitment to honesty and quality has defined our approach for more than three decades.

Services & Facilities

The shop operates as both a traditional high-street book dealer and a responsive mail-order business. Customers who step through our door can browse open stacks at their leisure, while those farther afield can rely on our efficient online catalogue and rapid delivery. Every order is handled by our small team, meaning your questions are answered by an owner who knows the inventory intimately.

• In-store browsing: Two floors of well-organised shelves invite unhurried exploration.
• Mail order & delivery: Books are shipped promptly, with next-day dispatch common and careful packaging standard.
• Personalised search: If a specific title or subject is not immediately visible, we consult our network and deep backlist to track it down.
• Condition reports & images: Additional details and photographs are provided on request, giving peace of mind for remote purchases.

Our Specialisms & Collection

While the stock covers an impressive range of subjects, Hawkridge Books is particularly revered for its ornithology and natural history holdings. With around 1,100 ornithological volumes and 700 works dedicated to natural history, the shop has become a destination for serious collectors in these fields. Equally strong are the Folio Society editions, Derbyshire topography, and a rich selection of history, literature, and biography.

Key subject areas

• Ornithology: Over 1,100 volumes covering bird species, habitats, and avian art.
• Natural History: Botany, zoology, geology, and ecology represented in depth.
• Folio Society: A curated selection of beautifully produced editions.
• History & Topography: British and world history, with a notable emphasis on Derbyshire and the Peak District.
• Modern First Editions: Collectible contemporary fiction and non-fiction.

Why Customers Choose Us

In an era of impersonal online marketplaces, Hawkridge Books offers something rare: direct access to booksellers who genuinely care. Irene and Joe’s experience spans over thirty years, and they treat every inquiry—whether a casual question about a £5 paperback or a hunt for a scarce limited edition—with equal respect. The shop’s loyal following values this blend of expertise and approachability.

• Owner-operated: Every email and phone call is fielded by the proprietors themselves.
• Transparent grading: Descriptions are honest and thorough, protecting buyers from unwelcome surprises.
• Competitive pricing: Quality stock is offered at fair, realistic prices that reflect market value.
• Next-day delivery: Many orders arrive at your door within 24 hours.

Serving Bakewell & Derbyshire

Located on Matlock Street in the picturesque market town of Bakewell, the shop contributes to the town’s vibrant independent retail scene. Visitors to the Peak District regularly combine a walk along the River Wye with a browse through our Derbyshire and local-interest sections. For residents, we are a reliable source of reading material, reference works, and collectible regional accounts that larger chains overlook.

Though our physical presence is firmly rooted in Bakewell, our mail-order service extends nationwide. The carefully structured website allows customers to search by category, view stock, and place orders from anywhere in the United Kingdom. It is the same quality service, simply delivered to your address rather than carried home from our counter.

Hours, Location & Directions

The shop welcomes visitors six days a week, with doors open from 10 am to 5 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. We remain closed on Wednesdays and Sundays to allow for restocking, research, and family time. The address is easy to find on one of Bakewell’s main thoroughfares, and there is parking available nearby in the town centre.

• Monday: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Tuesday: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Sunday: Closed

Questions Visitors Ask

Can I search your inventory without visiting the shop?

Absolutely. Our website displays a searchable catalogue of available titles, and we encourage phone or email enquiries if you need a particular book. The online system is updated regularly to reflect recent sales and new arrivals.

Do you only sell antiquarian and collectible books?

No. While we specialise in fine and antiquarian editions, we also stock a wide variety of good-quality reading copies. The common thread is condition—every book we offer is in worthwhile shape and clearly described.

How quickly can I receive a mail-order book?

Most orders placed before midday are dispatched the same day and arrive the following working day. We pack all parcels securely so that your book reaches you in exactly the condition we described.

Is the shop accessible for wheelchair users?

The ground floor is accessible, and staff are always available to assist. Please contact us in advance if you have specific needs—we will do everything possible to make your visit comfortable.

Can you source a title that isn’t currently in stock?

Yes. Our experience and connections allow us to search for specific titles. Let us know the book you are looking for, and we will make every effort to locate a copy that meets your requirements.