A brand new bookshop dedicated to sci-fi, with some great first edition finds, has opened in Hay-on-Wye.

Bookshop 451, a play on the famous dystopian novel by Ray Bradbury, can be found at 10 High Town.

The bookshop has been opened by the same team at second hand bookshop Green Ink.

“We had been toying with the idea of a specialist science fiction and fantasy bookshop to go alongside Green Ink for about a year so when the perfect premises became available we took the plunge,” Ellen, at Bookshop 451 said. “Throughout the 2010s there was an idea that the era of the specialist bookshop was over but now I think people really appreciate finding somewhere that caters to their interest, in real life and not just online.”

On the shelves, you’ll find more than sci-fi. “It's a welcoming space with enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff who are happy to chat all things book and make recommendations, or equally leave you to browse our large fantasy and science fiction sections, alongside romantasy, horror and first edition and collectable books. We stock some graphic novels, YA books and hold a small selection of prints and cards as well.”

The reception in the town has been fantastic, says Ellen. “However confident in your idea it's always nerve wracking to open to the public for the first time but the response has been brilliant and beyond what we could have imagined. People have been happy to find us in Hay and we're thrilled to be able to offer this space.”

“Some people might think sci-fi and fantasy isn't for them but there really is such a wide range of styles and topics covered by these genres,” Ellen adds. “Pop in and say hello or find us on Instagram @bookshop451.”