Alan and Claire

Moving to the Dales in September 2021, the opportunity to fulfil a long-held dream to open an independent bookshop became a reality.

Having both spent 30 years working for others, change beckoned, and it was time for a new adventure.

Starting a new business and creating a bookshop from scratch, has been a steep learning curve and a bit of a roller coaster ride!  We've been very excited, and yet these feelings have been punctuated with a little trepidation and the inevitable few sleepless nights!

And why ‘The Wonky Tree’?

Living on a Devon smallholding, peacefully situated at the end of a long farm track, we were often difficult to find. Luckily, at the start of the track a tree grew at a quirky angle, and it could be seen from some distance.

The tree became a point of reference, ‘Look for the wonky tree’ we’d say to people ‘and you’ll find us.’

Our wonky tree helped unite us with friends, family, and happy times. We couldn’t think of a more fitting name for our bookshop.

Our aspiration in opening The Wonky Tree Bookshop is to nurture a community of people who love reading and talking about books. We have big plans for the future and wish to create an incredibly special place where reading will flourish.

We hope you’ll join us and share our new journey; whether in person or online.... just look for the wonky tree!

Alan and Claire