Francis Edwards Antiquarian Bookseller has stood as a cornerstone of the rare and secondhand book world since its establishment in 1855. Originally founded in the West End of London, the business earned a reputation for specializing in exceptional volumes that range from travel and natural history to literature and social sciences. Now based in HayonWye widely known as The Town of Books the firm combines a rich heritage, scholarly curation, and global reach, making it a goto destination for collectors, decorators, and institutions.
A Storied History of Care and Scholarship
Since its founding in 1855, Francis Edwards has carved a reputation for excellence in the antiquarian book trade. ,
From London to HayonWye
Today, Francis Edwards operates from the top floor of the Hay Cinema Bookshop in HayonWye, occupying four showroom rooms with over 6,000 volumes in stock.
Specialist Subjects and Notable Catalogues
While Francis Edwards carries books on a wide array of subjects, it places particular emphasis on:
- Travel and voyages
- Natural history
- Art and architecture
- Naval and military history
- Science, medicine, literature, and social sciences
One of the firm’s most comprehensive offerings was its 190708 military catalogue, showcasing hundreds of military and naval titles an iconic example of their scholarly approach.
The Modern Business Model and Services
Buying and Selling Worldwide
Francis Edwards seeks important single books, private collections, and entire libraries, conducting acquisition trips in the UK, Europe, the US, and even Japan.
Cataloguing and Client Engagement
Regular printed catalogues are published across various subjects. The firm also offers a 30day return policy on misdescribed or damaged items an assurance appreciated by collectors.
Decorative Books for Interiors
Not only a destination for readers, Francis Edwards is also a source for decorative and prop book needs. They offer thematic sets in 19thcentury bindings, as well as modern paperbacks, catering to clients like retailers, designers, and theatres.
Professional Recognition and Affiliations
- Member of the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association (ABA)
- Participant in the Provincial Booksellers Fair Association (PBFA)
- Affiliated with the Welsh Booksellers Association
These professional ties and participation in major ABA book fairs in London and abroad reinforce their standing in the field.
Leadership and Expertise
The company is led by experienced professionals, including Chief Executive Greg Coombes, Manager & Director Deb Clark, Chief Buyer Stefan Cole, and specialists like David Hughes and Rachael Garrett.
Visiting Francis Edwards
Open daily except on major holidays, the HayonWye shop keeps hours from 9 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and slightly shorter hours on Sundays and during the annual literature festival. Located on Castle Street, with customer parking and the convenience of the cinema bookshop below, the site is easy to reach and inviting to both casual browsers and serious researchers.
Why Collectors Choose Francis Edwards
- A deep inventory covering specialist subjects
- Expert knowledge demonstrated through thorough catalogues
- Secure policies like postsale returns
- Decorative volumes tailored for interior design and props
- Global buying presence enhancing stock variety and rarity
These traits combine to create a trusted antiquarian book service with appeal to collectors, libraries, decorators, and designers.
Looking Ahead
After more than 165 years in business, Francis Edwards is positioned for continued relevance. It engages both the physical and digital markets with catalogues, book fairs, and local retail presence. Its HayonWye location anchors its future, ensuring it remains synonymous with depth, expertise, and the pleasure of discovery for generations of bibliophiles.
Francis Edwards Antiquarian Bookseller exemplifies the enduring value of carefully curated rare books. With a legacy stretching back to 1855 and a modern foothold in HayonWye, it offers exceptional depth of subject matter, rigorous scholarship, and a broad range of services from buying and private sales to decorative bindings. Trusted by collectors, designers, and institutions alike, Francis Edwards continues to write new chapters in the history of antiquarian bookselling.