After 17 remarkable years, the Watchet Community Bookshop, also known as Harbour Community Bookshop, has announced it will close its doors at the end of September. Since opening in 2009, this volunteer-run bookshop, supported entirely by donated books, has raised an impressive £165,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and awarded over £100,000 in grants to local community projects.
The dedicated shop team shared in a heartfelt statement: “After much thought, we have decided this will be the bookshop’s final season. We are proud to have exceeded our expectations in both community engagement and fundraising efforts, culminating in £200,000 donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and substantial support for local voluntary causes. Mission accomplished.”
They continued, “We are deeply grateful to the people of Watchet and the surrounding areas for their generous book donations and loyal patronage. Your support has been the lifeblood of this venture — we couldn’t have done it without you.”
The announcement prompted an outpouring of appreciation from visitors and locals alike. One visitor reflected, “You will be very much missed. My 91-year-old mum always visits Watchet just to stop by your bookshop.” Another added, “Such sad news. My daughters will be heartbroken. Visiting the bookshop is always a must during our trips here; it’s the best bookshop I’ve ever seen.”
Community members also praised the shop’s role in supporting local events like flower and dog shows, and highlighted the shop’s impressive fundraising achievements. One resident remarked, “You’ve done a fantastic job—not only through the funds raised but also by creating a must-visit tourist attraction that has benefitted the entire town.”
The bookshop will continue accepting book donations until the end of July and remain open daily until the end of September. Operating hours will be 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays.