The Secret Bookshelf: independent book store in Carrickfergus scoops top accolade in British Book Awards
An independent book store in Carrickfergus has scooped a top accolade in The British Book Awards – for the second time in three years.
The Secret Bookshelf, based at The Courtyard in the town, won the Independent Bookshop of the Year title for the island of Ireland.
The retailer, which opened its doors in 2020, was previously crowned winner in the same category in 2024, as well being named a finalist in 2025.
The Bookseller, administrator of The British Book Awards, praised the local retailer for its community activities over the past year.
This included hosting The Not-So-Secret Book Festival in summer 2025, along with an overhaul of the shop’s children’s room, investing in sensory elements to make the space more accessible to all young people.
The shop was also lauded for its extensive work with schools, which in 2026 included providing pop-up bookstalls and facilitating an author visit in honour of World Book Day.