Bookends is a family-run, independent bookshop set in a rambling 5-storey Georgian building shared with second-hand bookshop Bookcase and the cafe and garden of Cakes & Ale in  historic  Carlisle. Established in 1978, we do specialise in Cumbrian books. Sister shop Bookcase has a treasure trove of second-hand books, sheet music, vinyl and Classical CDs. 

We love being part of Carlisle's thriving cultural community and hold regular events, reading groups, poetry groups, Tipsy Filly gin 'n 'book nights, storytimes, quizzes and competitions! We are also one of the organising partners of the Borderlines Book Festival which is held every October. 

Here on uk.bookshop.org you'll find a wealth of books , and your purchase will help support us and other indie bookshops around the country. If you want to see a greater range of specifically Cumbrian books ( about 1500 titles!) do have a good look on our own website at  https://bookscumbria.com