Recommended Literary Escape: Best Books Airbnb with a Two-Year Waitlist

Nestled in Wigtown, Scotland’s National Book Town, The Open Book offers an incredibly unique travel experience. This charming bookstore and Airbnb combo allows guests not only to stay above a bookstore but to actually run it during the day! Opened in 2014, The Open Book has captivated bibliophiles worldwide, becoming an international sensation with visitors from as far away as Hawaii and Beijing. The demand has grown so much that there is currently a two-year waiting list for this one-of-a-kind adventure.

The Concept Behind The Open Book

This volunteer-run project was spearheaded by American author and filmmaker Jessica Fox, who fell in love with Wigtown during her travels. Her vision was simple: allow visitors to run a bookstore for a week while staying in a cozy apartment above the shop. Since its inception, the initiative has hosted over 450 guests, each given the freedom to manage the shop however they like—changing book displays, pricing, and interacting with the local community.

What makes The Open Book so special is not only the novelty of running a bookstore but also the experience of being part of a tight-knit literary community. Visitors are often welcomed by locals, who are always eager to engage with new booksellers. The shop is also integrated into Wigtown's broader cultural landscape, which hosts the annual Wigtown Book Festival—a major literary event in Scotland.

The Unique Appeal

Staying at The Open Book appeals to a wide range of travelers—whether it’s an adventurous book lover, an aspiring bookseller, or someone simply seeking an immersive cultural experience. Guests have complete freedom to make the bookstore their own during their stay. Whether rearranging the displays or promoting specific books, each guest leaves their mark on the shop. Some visitors even bring their own creative themes to the store, making it a hub of personal expression.

For many, the appeal lies in living out a romanticized dream of owning a bookshop by the sea, with a view of the Galloway coast and the serene Scottish countryside. The community of Wigtown, known for its literary heritage and friendly residents, enhances this experience. According to feedback from previous visitors, the hospitality and sense of belonging are just as memorable as the bookstore itself.

Running a Bookstore as Part of Your Holiday

While The Open Book offers a whimsical, low-pressure version of bookstore ownership, there are no strict obligations. Guests are free to manage the shop as they wish, without the pressure of maintaining profits or dealing with stock. It’s an ideal setup for those wanting a taste of bookstore life without the business headaches. And with Wigtown’s reputation as a "book town," there's a steady stream of curious visitors.

The Waitlist and Future Plans

Despite its remote location in the Scottish lowlands, The Open Book attracts people from all corners of the globe. This popularity has led to the current two-year waitlist, with prospective guests eagerly awaiting their chance to play bookseller for a week. Those lucky enough to secure a spot rave about the experience, often booking repeat stays. Some visitors even form lifelong connections with the town and its residents, further solidifying Wigtown’s role as a global destination for book lovers.

As public funding for projects like the Wigtown Book Festival faces challenges, the proceeds from The Open Book help sustain this initiative and the town’s literary efforts, contributing approximately £10,000 annually to local cultural activities. This blend of tourism, literature, and community support exemplifies how creative ideas can bring new energy to rural areas.

For anyone who dreams of owning a bookstore or simply wants to experience a slower pace of life surrounded by books and a supportive community, The Open Book offers an unforgettable journey. The two-year waitlist speaks volumes about the demand for this literary escapade, but for those willing to be patient, the reward is more than worth it.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a passionate reader, this unique Airbnb provides an opportunity to step into the shoes of a bookstore owner while soaking in the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland’s National Book Town.