Word on the Water: The London Bookbarge

Sometimes you stumble across the best things when you’re least expecting it. I’ve spent the weekend in Bristol at a wedding, and after a (hungover) train ride to Paddington today, I stepped outside the station for a breather before getting the tube, and discovered one of London’s hidden secrets. On Union Canal, Word on the Water is London’s ‘book barge’ – a bookshop, on a barge.

They have loooads of secondhand books on offer, with loads of genres and types of books which I spent quite a while nosying at. Paperbacks are priced at £3, or two for a fiver, which is pretty decent considering they’re all in near perfect condition – and far cheaper than train station WH Smiths!

There was also a band setting up on top of the barge to play a little gig – the barge regularly has live music, readings and poetry slams.

Compared to the hustle and bustle of Paddington station, the little area its in is really quiet, perfect if you need a little rest from travelling or want to pick up something to read on your journey – if you’re ever at Paddington, I definitely recommend checking it out!