Save The Haunted Bookshop

Aim

Bristol's only witchy/alternative bookshop has fallen on hard times and we need your help to keep this community hub open.

Almost two years ago, The Haunted Bookshop opened its doors with a simple dream: to create a bookshop unlike any other in Bristol. Since then, it has become so much more than a place to buy books. It has grown into a welcoming home for readers, creatives, and anyone who has ever felt a little different. 

We specialise in occult, folklore, horror, and fantasy books, alongside a carefully curated collection of handmade goods created by talented independent Bristol makers. Every purchase supports not only our shop, but a wider network of local artists and small businesses.

Community has always been at the heart of everything we do. We host monthly Coven Nights where people can meet new friends, as well as book clubs, author events, workshops, and other gatherings that bring people together. Watching these connections form has been the greatest privilege of running this shop, and I want nothing more than to see this community continue to grow and thrive.

Like so many independent businesses, we've been hit hard. High streets are becoming quieter, beloved local shops are closing, and this summer has been especially difficult. The prolonged heatwave reduced footfall even further at a time when we were already struggling.

I've poured everything I have into keeping The Haunted Bookshop alive. I've exhausted my savings, relied on credit cards, and done everything I can to avoid asking for help. Despite that, we've fallen behind on essential bills, and the financial pressure has become impossible to manage alone. It has also taken a significant toll on my physical and mental health.

As difficult as it is, I'm asking for your support.

If The Haunted Bookshop closes, Bristol won't just lose a bookshop. It will lose a unique community space. There is nowhere else quite like it. We've created a place where people who often feel like they don't belong can find friendship, acceptance, and a sense of home. We've championed independent authors, supported local makers, and helped countless people rediscover their love of reading and become a part of something bigger.

With your help, we can get through this difficult period, pay our outstanding bills and our business loan, and give The Haunted Bookshop the chance not just to survive, but to thrive and become more sustainable. We can carry on building community, hosting events and supporting local creators and artists.

Every donation, every share, and every kind word makes a difference. Thank you for believing in this little haunted corner of Bristol.

Thank you from the bottom of my little black heart,

Monika

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 10th September 2026 at 5:51pm