About
Bookbag is a vibrant independent bookshop in Exeter, located in the heart of the city’s independent West Quarter, McCoys Arcade. Founded in 2020 by Charlie and Malcolm Richards, we offer a carefully curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, nature writing, art books, poetry, zines, and titles from indie publishers and local authors.
We’re more than just a bookshop, we’re a community space. Bookbag hosts author events, book launches, poetry nights, and creative workshops, making us a destination for readers, writers, and book lovers. Our team is passionate about inclusive literature, diverse voices, and creating a welcoming environment for all ages.
Whether you're searching for your next bestseller, exploring small press gems, or looking for a local bookshop near you, Bookbag is a place where stories—and people—come together.
Press
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Bookbag teams up with local poets to spread hop...
An Exeter bookshop has teamed up with local poets to spread hope around the city. Read in full
Bookbag teams up with local poets to spread hop...
An Exeter bookshop has teamed up with local poets to spread hope around the city. Read in full
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Faber Independent Bookshop of the Month
Our Bookshop of the Month is Bookbag, Exeter – an independent bookshop opened by Charlie and Malcolm Richards in December 2020, in between lockdowns. We spoke to co-founder Charlie. Tell...
Faber Independent Bookshop of the Month
Our Bookshop of the Month is Bookbag, Exeter – an independent bookshop opened by Charlie and Malcolm Richards in December 2020, in between lockdowns. We spoke to co-founder Charlie. Tell...
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The Guardian – Opening a bookshop during a pand...
For years, Charlie and Malcolm Richards – she’s a former marketing manager, he’s a teacher and a researcher at Exeter University – dreamed of opening a bookshop. They imagined what...
The Guardian – Opening a bookshop during a pand...
For years, Charlie and Malcolm Richards – she’s a former marketing manager, he’s a teacher and a researcher at Exeter University – dreamed of opening a bookshop. They imagined what...
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Exeter Living
Word on the street. All hail the new independent bookshop that's taking Exeter by storm. Read the full article here
Exeter Living
Word on the street. All hail the new independent bookshop that's taking Exeter by storm. Read the full article here