Start your new chapter in this Clonakilty gem.

A RARE and exciting opportunity has arrived on the market to own one of Ireland’s most cherished independent bookshops.

Kerr’s Bookshop, located in the heart of Clonakilty, has been put up for sale by its owner after 34 years of successful trading.

Trish and John Kerr’s thriving business is long established as a cornerstone of the local community, and a must-visit for book lovers from near and far.

The shop won An Post’s Regional Bookshop of the Year Award and was selected as Faber & Faber Independent Bookshop of the Month as recently as February 2026.

The business is being offered as a turnkey going concern in a prime retail main-street location. But there’s a lot more to this three-storey property.

Upstairs you will find a spacious and character-filled charming residence above the shop, all presenting in excellent order and decoration.

The retail premises features a traditional West Cork shop front and is fully furnished with customised hand-crafted solid wood doors, shelving and display units.

The accommodation comprises dining room/home office with solid fuel open fireplace, a family kitchen with oil-fired potbelly stove, utility with WC, enclosed courtyard, detached workshop.

On the first floor are two spacious double bedrooms, guest bathroom and WC, living room with solid fuel marble fireplace.

The second floor is home to the master bedroom with walk-in closet, and a shower room. The third floor attic provides a spacious additional bedroom, and recreational and storage room.

The Kerrs have raised their family here and are looking forward to seeing someone else start a new chapter in the premises.

John Kerr said: 'I would really like to say a thank you to the town, the community and our customers. That's what it's all about. We can never say that enough... we wouldn't be here without their support... to have created an opportunity to raise our family, that meant everything to us.'

The property is guiding at €595,000 and provides an exciting opportunity for someone seeking to follow the dream of pursuing a great work/life balance, owning an iconic bookshop, and enjoying a beautiful home in a vibrant community.

Viewing is highly recommended and by appointment only (Hodnett Forde).

Full interview with Trish and John Kerr in next week’s Southern Star.