York National Book Fair

The York National Book Fair returns to the Knavesmire Suite at York Racecourse on Friday 11 September, running through to Saturday 12 September. It's a rare, antiquarian and out-of-print book fair, and it's one of the biggest of its kind in the UK and Europe. Over the two days, more than 150 booksellers bring together upwards of 100,000 books, so there's plenty to dig through whether you're hunting for a specific title or just browsing.

It's not a trade-only event, either. It's open to everyone, not just dealers, and it's often recommended as a good starting point for anyone looking to start collecting. The fair traces its origins back to 1974, when it launched with just 20 exhibitors at the White Swan Inn in York. It's grown a lot since then, and it's now widely considered one of the largest and friendliest rare book fairs in the country.

There are a few practical things to keep in mind before you head over. Inside the fair, no bags except small handbags and no overcoats are allowed, though they'll be checked for you free of charge. No dogs are admitted except assistance dogs, and you can't bring your own books into the fair. If you're driving, there's free parking at the venue, and if you're coming by train, a free shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes from York railway station at the Memorial Gardens.

Entry is £2.00, and children under 16 get in free. On Friday 11 September, the fair is open from 12:00 to 19:00; on Saturday 12 September, it's open from 10:00 to 17:00.