This is what all bookshops should be like, in my opinion — small and cosy but packed to the rafters with intriguing tomes, none of which I went in for but most of which I’d happily drag home with me. Browsing in Herne Hill Books can be an expensive pastime — it’s like someone put together a range of reading materials especially for my amusement, education and edification — but a thoroughly pleasurable one. The staff are great, really knowledgeable and chatty and proud to be there.