Have you ever thought that bookshops would be better if they were…floating? Look no further!

Word on the Water is a 1920s Dutch barge that was lovingly transformed into an independent London bookshop in 2011. This did not come without its challenges. Before gaining a permanent mooring, it was forced to move to a different spot every fortnight to avoid hefty fines from the canal authorities. After a successful campaign, it’s now acquired a fixed home on Regent’s Canal Towpath at Granary Square, a short walk away from King’s Cross and St Pancras stations.

There are plenty of books to browse on the shelves outside, but those willing to walk the plank and step aboard are in for an even bigger treat. There’s a real treasure trove inside, with a lovely selection of new and second-hand reads filling every corner. Whether you’re looking for crime, non-fiction, poetry or cult classics, they’re sure to have something to suit you. There are also some comfy seats so you can sit down and look through your options. It’s a slightly surreal experience to see boats chugging by and even the odd duck bobbing past the windows as you browse!

As a popular destination for booklovers and tourists alike, it gets quite busy at weekends. The staff also host many events inside or on their rooftop stage, including live music, poetry slams and a monthly book club. Read on, me hearties, yo ho.

Images by Caitlin Jenkins