South east London is packed with some fantastic independent bookshops to explore this World Book Day.

Today marks World Book Day and the celebration of reading, with many children, teachers and parents alike preparing to dress up as their favourite characters to mark the occasion.

Whether you are looking to buy your little one a new picture book or want to get your hands on a thrilling page-turner, south east London has plenty of thriving independent bookshops to try.

Moon Lane Books, Catford

Where: 300 Stanstead Road, Catford, SE23 1DE

Located on Stanstead Road in Catford, Moon Lane Books is a bookshop run by non-profit organisation Moon Lane Ink, whose main goal is to champion diversity in children’s books.

They stock a wide variety of children’s books, for youngsters from early years to teens, offering both fiction and non-fiction which represents diverse backgrounds, from disability to different cultures and religions.

They also host a variety of events with authors and celebrate different months with curated collections of books, if you’re looking for some inspiration of a new book to try.

Halcyon Books, Lee Green

Where: 266 Lee High Road, Lee Green, SE13 5PL

If it’s pre-loved or second-hand books you’re in the market for, Halcyon Books in Lee Green is a treasure trove of second-hand titles from new paperbacks to vintage tomes.

With its rich red exterior and eclectic mix of books and oddities, it's like an Aladdin’s Cave for book lovers.

They also serve hot drinks and cakes if you fancy taking refuge at one of the tables and getting lost in a book for a while.

Kirkdale Bookshop, Crystal Palace

Where: 272 Kirkdale, Crystal Palace, SE26 4RS

First opening in 1968, Kirkdale Bookshop is a popular store in Crystal Palace selling both second-hand and new books spanning across two floors.

With its white exterior and flower arrangement, it makes for a pretty shopfront to take a photo of.

Alongside its wide range of books, it also sells gifts, cards and wrapping paper if you are looking for a gift for someone special.

The Bookshop on the Heath, Blackheath

Where: 74 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath, SE3 0BW

First becoming a bookseller in 1949, the Bookshop on the Heath is one of south east London’s longstanding bookshops.

Located on Tranquil Vale with views of the Heath and Greenwich beyond, this bookshop is perfect for anyone looking to find a second-hand or rare volume.

They have a range of books including first editions, fine bindings and antiquarian books, along with a range of local paintings of Greenwich and Lewisham by Tony Lord.

The Beckenham Bookshop, Beckenham

Where: 42 High Street, Beckenham, BR3 1AY

With its brightly coloured window décor range of gifts, cards and toys, The Beckenham Bookshop is a popular spot for book lovers.

The small bookshop stocks a range of titles from new releases to children’s books in different genres.

They also offer a loyalty scheme for all customers and welcome orders from local businesses and schools.