Rating: 4.6 ★ (60 ratings)
Within a historic listed building on St Aldate's, just a brief stroll from Christ Church College, you'll find St Philip's Books, home to an extensive collection of around 10,000 new, second-hand, and rare titles. While the shop boasts a special focus on theology, church history – with particular emphasis on Roman Catholic books, John Henry Newman, and the Oxford Movement – its shelves also house a wealth of knowledge in history, literature, art, classics, and philosophy. The charming interior, with its fine Jacobean ceiling and wooden shelves brimming from floor to ceiling, creates a cosy and intimate atmosphere, inviting you to lose yourself in the written word. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through this treasure trove, whether you're seeking a specific scholarly text or simply browsing.
For those with a passion for the humanities, this independent bookstore offers a truly enriching experience. You might uncover leather-bound first editions, out-of-print works, or fascinating volumes on local Oxford interest, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien. The carefully curated selection extends to Folio Society editions and new books in classic literature, including Penguin clothbound classics. More than just a place to purchase books, St Philip's feels like a sanctuary where the physical beauty and historical significance of each volume are deeply appreciated. It's a key destination for academics, students, and anyone with a love for rare finds and the quiet reverence of a traditional bookshop.
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday: Closed
+44 1865 202182
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