This book shop has some really great bargains, the only down side is that it rarely has new…read morereleases but I guess that's why they are bargains. Not only does it sell books but also it has a wide range of stationary and some crafty things also. Hard backs and paperbacks, I've bought many of their deals where you can get 3 paperbacks for five pounds. The shop is a bit cramped so if you're looking for something in particular you can feel as though you are getting in the way. Stick with it though and grab your self some bargains. Think it's changed it's name now to THE WORKS

This book shop is a real bargain shop.They not only stock books but crafts and dvds and games all…read moreat discount prices.It is quite small and if there are a lot of people in there it can be difficult to look at things.They also have named pens and outdoor toys for kids.I picked up a few bargains here including books for kids.

This is a shop that you need a lot of time to look in because you don't really go in here knowing…read morewhat you want! It sells all the usual books, stationery, gadgets etc at great prices but I have to admit that some of it is a load of rubbish! I've had some good travel guides and kids presents over the last few years from here. Unfortunately your normal discount vouchers for W H Smith on the high street can't be used here and it can get into quite a mess and you have to rummage though to find anything worth buying! At the right time of year, home office stuff can go for a steal in here!

Amazing place that accepts you for being you. *Warning* @ Social Refuge where they treat you…read moredifferently if your not like them. I visited this coffee shop recently and left feeling pretty uncomfortable with how I was treated. From the moment I ordered, the staff came across as dismissive and noticeably colder toward me compared to other customers around me. There were a few interactions that felt unnecessarily sharp, and it gave the impression that I wasn't particularly welcome there. I want to be fair, but as a straight customer, the difference in tone and attitude didn't go unnoticed. Whether intentional or not, it made the experience feel exclusionary rather than inclusive. It's a shame because the space itself has a lot of personality, but the service made it hard to enjoy. I'd hope they work on creating a more welcoming environment for everyone.

I get the irony by starting with the quote "don't judge a book by its cover" but tbh this is…read moreexactly what I've been doing every time I've walked past this place in the past few months... Whether it was because the area of town is a bit random, the building a bit unattractive and me thinking it was more of a bookshop - something just seemed to be putting me off. But today in my meeting with Matt F we decided to give it a go and what a great decision it was! First off this place is huge and a labyrinth once inside - one half hipster bookshop, the other half cool cafe with a real nod to health (check out the menu on my pics). A really lovely environment with working fountain and a variety of places to sit. The food was excellent too - my breakfast pancakes were probably the best I've had in Manchester so far which is saying something. Quick note that they don't do sides - at one stage I thought I was going to turn into Jack Nicholson in '5 Easy Pieces' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wtfNE4z6a8 but thankfully the guy sorted us out with a side of toast after I asked nicely...repeatedly... Very friendly staff, great venue. I'll be back soon to work/eat/drink coffee/read a book - or all at the same time!