About Bow Windows Bookshop

Bow Windows was founded in 1964 and owned for 20 years by Dawsons, a large public company that also owned Frank Hammond, Deighton Bell and Dawsons of Pall Mall.

In 1984 Alan and Jennifer Shelley acquired the business and have run it successfully for the last 24 years. Robert Seville, who was one of the original staff, remained as cataloguer and general wise man until his retirement in in 2000.

In 1994 Bow Windows Bookshop moved down the hill from the original bow windowed premises to a slightly larger premises in the centre of this lovely town. As well as the shop, we have a first floor location in another part of the High Street with further stock. Please ask if you wish to be shown this room.

Alan Shelley, who is currently President of the Antiquarian Booksellers Association, is involved in all aspects of the business, but has particular responsibility for buying.

Jennifer Shelley is an active partner in Bow Windows Bookshop and looks after the administrative side of things.

Ric Latham joined the business in 1998, and is responsible for the book cataloguing, maintenance of our internet activities, and much more besides.

Gilly Barrett works with us as a part-time sales assistant.