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13

May

Last Updated: 13/05/2026
Business
Business

Independent bookshop to open in Boroughbridge

by Flora Grafton

| 13 May, 2026
Comment

0

mixcollage-13-may-2026-03-21-pm-7407
Tom Garrod and Kerry Thornton are opening Beloved Books in on Boroughbridge's Horsefair.

It’s good news for local bookworms as a new independent bookshop is coming to Boroughbridge.

Beloved Books, which has taken over a unit on Horsefair, is a family-run business that began trading on Etsy and TikTok Shop in January last year.

Since then, owners Kerry Thornton and Tom Garrod have run book stalls at local fairs, but Boroughbridge will be their first bricks-and-mortar store.

The South Yorkshire couple told the Stray Ferret they often visit North Yorkshire and “fell in love” with Boroughbridge after stumbling across it.

“We love the sense of community, the focus on independent businesses and the people there”, they said.

Ms Thornton said she and Mr Garrod are passionate about reading and encourage “even the most reluctant of readers” to enjoy it.

What can people expect from Beloved Books? Ms Thornton said:

We will have books for all ages, a reading nook, and a comfy family area, complete with beanbag and children's seats. 

We will stock a wide range of genres, from fantasy to romantasy, thrillers to romance. We will also stay true to our roots, stocking a range of blind dates with a book, and supporting indie authors where possible. 

In the future we will look to host events, such as author visits and book clubs.

The blind date with a book concept involves someone buying a book without knowing what it is.

Ms Thornton said each book is wrapped in paper to hide the title and author, and Beloved Books will offer a range of genres as part of it.

“Many readers stick to authors or genres they know. This gives them the opportunity to discover something new, something they may not have picked for themselves, and they also make great gifts for someone who loves reading”, she added.

The owners are hoping to welcome their first customers on Saturday, May 23, and will operate daily throughout the May half-term.

After that, Beloved Books will open from 10am until 5pm, Monday to Saturday. 

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