
Hold Fast Bookshop
Explore Hold Fast Bookshop, a unique independent bookstore and plant shop afloat on a charming barge at Leeds Dock.
Hold Fast Bookshop offers a truly unique literary and botanical experience, housed within a charming barge on Leeds Dock. This highly-rated independent establishment, boasting a perfect 5/5 stars from numerous visitors, has captured hearts with its distinctive concept of combining a carefully curated selection of books with an array of beautiful plants. Reviewers frequently praise the innovative setting and the cosy atmosphere found within this floating haven.
Despite its compact space, Hold Fast Bookshop presents a surprisingly extensive range of books spanning various genres, ensuring there’s something for every reader. Complementing the literary offerings is a delightful collection of plants, some noted for their quirky names, adding to the shop's unique charm. Visitors can enjoy exploring the decks, finding a quiet corner, or even relaxing in the lovely outdoor seating area adorned with flowers.
Visiting Information
Hold Fast Bookshop welcomes visitors Thursday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The shop is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Please note that due to the nature of its barge location, the venue does not offer wheelchair accessible parking, entrance, restrooms, or seating. Payment is convenient, with the bookshop accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments.
from 97 reviews
Google Reviews
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Showing 5 of 97 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 8 February 2026.
I've been wanting to go here for ages and I wasn't disappointed! Cute little bloating book and plant shop. I love how all the plants have quirky names! Definitely worth a visit if you're visiting Leeds
A unique beautiful bookshop on a barge, on the canal in Leeds. Step on to the deck bedecked with pots and containers full of varieties of flowers, ferns and foliage, with plenty of seating to take in the beauty of it all. Then pop inside to discover a well stocked bookshop with friendly staff, keen to offer reading recommendations. Great place to visit, pick up a book and maybe even a plant with its own name added to its pot.
We traveled from Sheffield to Leeds specifically to visit Hold fast Bookshop, and it did not disappoint. This is probably the cutest bookstore I've ever been to. Located on a unique canal boat with charming outdoor seating, it offers a delightful and distinctive experience. Though small, the bookstore boasts a remarkable selection of books. The upper deck is dedicated to a beautiful set of indoor plants, while the lower deck houses an impressive variety of books. I found current popular reads, timeless classics, non-fiction, children's books, and even a selection of second-hand books. I happily picked up a few books and a couple of plants during my visit. The owners are lovely. This incredible independent bookshop is a must-visit for anyone in Leeds.
What an amazing find! A bookshop and a plant shop rolled into one and sited on Leeds Dock in a wonderful old barge! Now barges aren’t very big but this has a huge range of books below deck of all types,yet it doesn’t feel cluttered. There’s even room for a beautiful stove at the far end. The upper section is full of plants starting at just £1.50 and every single plant has been given a name eg Susan or Kevin! The owners are lovely; welcoming and full of local knowledge. They’ve obviously built up a great reputation as there was a steady stream of customers whilst we were there. We bought 2 lovely plants as housewarming gifts; can’t believe that I didn’t take any photos 😢 Return visit so I’ve added some photos.
An amazingly cute floating bookshop, the inside is well planned out and I've never once felt cramped even when it's busy. They even have 2nd hand books on offer on occasion along with a quirky little selection of plants. There's even an outdoor seating area on the boat to just sit and read or enjoy the view. Do check opening time though
Location

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📍 Leeds Dock, Leeds LS10 1JB, UK
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Rating(Google)
Address
Leeds Dock, Leeds LS10 1JB, UK
Website
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Source: Google