Waterstones is due to open in Romsey town centre, delighting book-lovers who visit its branches in Winchester and Southampton.

But Romsey is home to several other global and local bookshops. Here is a look at some of the best places to find your next read in the area:

1.    Oasis
Oasis Christian Centre is a charity-run business that has operated since 1984. It sells a wide range of second-hand books, Bibles, cards, stationery, and whole foods from around the world. The charity is a focal point for collecting Book Aid and Christian Aid donations. Oasis encourages the community to come together by running occasional author evenings. 
Location: 25 Church Street, SO51 8BT
Opening hours: 9.30am - 4.30pm on weekdays, 9am-4pm on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays. 
Contact Details: 01794 512194
oasisromsey.co.uk/ 

Oasis Christian Centre  (Image: Google Street View)

2.    Oxfam Books and Music
Oxfam is a global charity selling many pre-loved goods, including many books. Specialising in second-hand books, the popular genres donated to Oxfam are children’s books, academic textbooks, fiction of all genres, rare and collectable books, poetry and plays. It also sells CDs. Not only do Oxfam offer affordable books, but the money they make is for an excellent cause. The donations go towards fighting climate change, equality for women, and global emergencies. All donated books that are not in good enough condition to sell are used for wood pulp and recycled. 
Location: 25 The Hundred, SO51 8GD
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm on weekdays, 9am - 5pm on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays.
Contact Details: 01794 517855
oxfam.org.uk/shops/oxfam-books-music-romsey/ 

Oxfam (Image: Google Street View)

READ MORE: Romsey Waterstones: Work pressing ahead on former M&Co store

Mottisfont’s bookshop (Image: Mike Moyle)

3.    National Trust – Mottisfont 
The National Trust's Mottisfont sells many second-hand books in the historic estate's stables. The donations go towards the works to preserve nature, beauty, and history across the UK, which is the National Trust’s priority. Mottisfont is just a short drive from Romsey town centre.
Location: Mottisfont Lane, SO51 0LN
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm Monday to Sunday.
Contact Details: 01794 340757
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/mottisfont 

4.    WHSmith 
Established in the late 1700s, WH Smith has become a national chain selling books of all genres worldwide. WH Smith caters to readers of all ages and interests, selling bestsellers and classic literature. Known for its frequent sales and clearances, WHSmith is a great place for a bargain. 
Location: 17 Market Place, SO51 8NA
Opening hours: 8.30am - 5pm on weekdays, 9am - 5pm on Saturdays, and 10am - 4pm on Sundays. 
Contact Details: 01794 512341
whsmith.co.uk/stores/details/?StoreID=5980