'Two slightly stunned booksellers here': Northern Ireland bookshop scoops top accolade in British Book Awards

An independent Northern Ireland bookshop has won a major honour at the British Book Awards for the second time in three years.

The Secret Bookshelf, located at The Courtyard in Carrickfergus, was named Independent Bookshop of the Year for the island of Ireland.

The retailer, which opened in 2020, previously won the same title in 2024 and was also shortlisted for the award in 2025.

Organisers of the awards, run by industry publication The Bookseller, praised the shop for its strong community focus and range of literary events over the past year.

This included hosting The Not-So-Secret Book Festival in summer 2025 and refurbishing the shop’s children’s room to include new sensory features designed to make the space more accessible for young readers.

The shop was also recognised for its outreach work with local schools, including pop-up bookstalls and organising an author visit to mark World Book Day in 2026.

Sharing the news on social media, owners Jo and Chris said they were “slightly stunned” to receive the award.

“Two slightly stunned booksellers here - we are indie bookstore of the year 2026 for the island of Ireland, and couldn’t be more delighted,” they posted.

“Big call out to our team - Deborah, Grace, Bethany and Gemma - who are brilliant in every way, and to all of you who support us, day in and day out! Long suffering family put up with our book obsession, too!

“And our partners in bookishness, Ballyscullion Park Book Magheramorne Estate Norncon @booksatone and to @booksellermagazine and Gardners for running and supporting the award!

“The Courtyard, Carrickfergus is such a terrific place to have our wee shop, and a huge call out to them and all the other businesses there, who work so hard and making it a special little gem in #carrickfergus

“Right, I’m away to eat chocolate and fan myself! x”