Located just the other side of Shepherd Market is the notable bookshop, Heywood Hill. Founded by George Heywood Hill in 1936, its range includes rare, notable and scholarly books which were beloved by its owner. His devotion to the business extended to his bed being located in the corner of the shop floor which was curtained off during the day. In the 1940s, author and socialite Nancy Mitford was employed there; her influence saw the development of a range of novels, and her energy and enthusiasm attracted notable customers including Evelyn Waugh and Cecil Beaton. During her tenure she wrote her most famous novel, The Pursuit of Love.
The exceptional personal service provided by the founding staff continues to this day; the shop offers a fabulous, tailored subscription package (inspired by a one-to-one reading consultation with you), and if you’re in for a browse and would like some guidance, a member of the team will be only too happy to assist you.