February Highlights
News and events from Bristol Books this February
Bookshop Q&A: Heron Books, Clifton
We speak to Lizzie Moss, owner of Heron Books in Clifton, to find out more about what it’s like to run an independent bookshop and discover her inspiration for starting the business.
Festival of Stories @ Sparks Bristol, 7th March
Come and see Bristol Books at the Festival of Stories, at Sparks, Bristol on 7th March, 11am-6pm. As well as having our book stand we will also be offering advice to any authors interested in finding out more about publishing or self-publishing.
Luke Jerram’s Helios back in Bristol
Luke Jerram's sun artwork 'Helios' has been installed in Jubilee Pool, Knowle, as a fundraiser to support the community led swimming pool. Open for the public to swim beneath, or spectate, until Sunday 8 February. You can see more of Luke's stunning artwork in his book Of Earth and Sky, published by Bristol Books.
Goodbye to Stanfords, Bristol…
Bristol Books are sad to say goodbye to Stanfords bookshop on Corn Street, having closed after nearly 30 years in business. Since opening in 1997 Stanfords was a go-to destination to find maps, guides and travel expertise in Bristol, as well as a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books including titles from Bristol Books. Stanfords will surely be missed.
Books in focus: Fears, the 180 year-old Bristol watchmaker
The Fears story began in 1846, in Bristol, when a talented young watchmaker named Edwin Fear established a workshop and showroom on Redcliff Street. In 2016, as Edwin Fear's great-great-great-grandson, Nicholas Bowman-Scargill re-established the family company to once again hand build exceptional watches in the UK. Discover the full story of Fears in Elegantly Understated (published by Bristol Books) a lavishly produced hardback featuring over 140 images, illustrations, maps and archive photography. Meticulously researched and beautifully written by Jane Duffus.
Bristol Teen Book Award 2026: Local schools invited to attend award ceremony
Local schools are being invited to the Bristol Teen Book Award 2026, with six books having been shortlisted. The Award, run by volunteer school librarians as part of the School Library Association West of England Branch, recognises excellent literature for teenagers, with a focus on diversity, representation, and books that reflect a wide range of experiences. The winning title will be chosen entirely by student vote, and voting is open until Saturday 7th February 2026.
Picture This: Harry Dolman’s Flying Flea
Harry Dolman’s Flying Flea, ‘Blue Finch’ (above). Harry (second from right) after a narrow escape having flipped his Flying Flea during test flight. This image is taken from Harry Dolman: The Millionaire Inventor Who Became “Mr Bristol City”.