New coffeeshop-bookshop-bar hybrid to open in Stockport

This new hybrid space, named Prologue, is set to open in the town centre in 2026, with the exact date still to be confirmed 

Is your friendship group split down the middle? Some are chasing wild nights of shots and chaos, while others are all about a chilled catch-up and a caffeine hit. Or maybe you’re all low-key bookworms who still somehow pull off that messy, 2000s party aesthetic. Instead of feeling the need to compromise with each other’s interests, there is now a location that suits everyone. 

The space will be opened by the same team who run Simply Books in Bramhall, an independent bookshop that also serves as a bookshop-cafe-winebar. Last year it won North England Independent Bookshop of the Year, and it’s clear to see why. The space is a firm favourite with Bramhall locals, acting as a vibrant community hub that regularly hosts events bringing residents together.  

Image Credits: Fahmi Fakhrudin

The new Stockport venue will be double the size of the Bramhall space and will host its own set of events including author talks, music, open mic-comedy, and more. Prologue will be the first bookshop in the UK to have a stage for these events, making it a truly unique space.  

The space is owned by mother and son duo, Karen and Ben Johns, who have had Simply Books for two years.  

Ben said: “We’re going to be putting every touch that we’ve ever wanted to. Everything from hidden bookcase doors, to rolling ladders on the bookcases, and most excitingly, a permanent stage. The team have got literally an endless list of ideas.”