Browse the shelves in Betsy's Second-hand Bookshop at Scotney Castle

Betsy's Second-hand Bookshop is a great spot to pick up a bargain and help support our conservation work. Step away from the garden and browse the shelves, enjoying the view out over the estate. You never know what you'll find of interest.

From the classics, to history, art, modern novels, there are some amazing reads, thanks to generous donations from visitors. There's a lot to discover, you could find that out-of-print book you've been searching for, a new author to try, or encounter a new interest.  Arranged like a library there is something for everyone -  including collectible older items and a Children’s Corner.  

A dedicated team of volunteers are kept busy sorting through the donations and ensuring the shelves are constantly brimming with books. Located by the entrance to the garden the bookshop provides a very pleasant environment to browse and read whilst enjoying a splendid view of the estate. Make sure you stop by during your next visit to Scotney and pick up a bargain.  

" We love volunteering in the bookshop - it's fascinating to see the variety of books that people kindly donate. "
- Linda & Ann, Bookshop volunteeers

Fundraising in the bookshop

Last year we raised £13,500 to support our essential conservation work across the house, gardens and the wider estate. So thank you to everyone who bought or donated books. 

Browse the shelves and admire the views from the second-hand bookshop at Scotney Castle
Enjoy the views from the second-hand bookshop
Browse the shelves and admire the views from the second-hand bookshop at Scotney Castle

Rare and unusual books

Sometimes, we're fortunate to receive a selection of more valuable and collectable items. We don't have all of them on display but the link below lists what we have in stock. If there are any you would like to view, please email to arrange a time when we can get them out of storage for you. All the details are on this link

We have included a suggested donation for these books and we can arrange to post them to you for an additional fee.

Multi-volume book sets available from Betsy's Second-Hand Bookshop (PDF / 0.7MB) download

Donate your unwanted books

We always welcome donations of books and these can be left with our team at Reception. If you have a particularly large donation that you need help transporting to Scotney Castle, please get in touch so we can see what we can do to help you.