Nomads
Two floors of authentic Asian and Indian artisan treasures opposite King's College.
Nomads is a distinctive gift shop located on King's Parade in the heart of Cambridge, specializing in handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and artisan goods sourced from across Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The shop spans two floors filled with authentic pieces including intricately designed necklaces, silk scarves, Afghan rugs, throws, lampshades, and Tibetan singing bowls. Known for supporting local and international artisans, Nomads offers visitors a curated selection of unique souvenirs and home furnishings that reflect rich craft heritage. Its prime location opposite King's College makes it an accessible stop while exploring Cambridge's historic city center.
A brief summary to Nomads
- 5 King's Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ, GB
- +441223324588
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed browsing experience; weekends attract larger crowds of tourists and locals.
- Ask staff about the origins and stories behind specific pieces—their knowledge adds depth to your purchase and helps identify authentic items.
- Explore both floors thoroughly; each level features different categories, and smaller items are often tucked into corners throughout the shop.
- Check for seasonal collections and newly arrived items, as inventory rotates regularly with fresh artisan pieces.
- Allow time to browse without rushing; the variety of goods rewards patient exploration and often reveals unexpected finds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Nomads location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Nomads
A Treasure Trove of Global Craftsmanship
Nomads occupies a distinctive two-story space on King's Parade, one of Cambridge's most iconic thoroughfares. The shop functions as a carefully curated gallery of handcrafted goods, drawing inventory from artisans across Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Each item tells a story of traditional craftsmanship—from individually designed jewelry pieces to authentic Afghan rugs, silk scarves sourced from the Kullu Valley, and hand-woven textiles. The collection extends beyond textiles to include Tibetan singing bowls, lampshades, throws, clothing, books, and CDs, creating an eclectic environment where visitors discover unexpected treasures on both levels.Supporting Artisans and Local Creativity
What distinguishes Nomads from typical souvenir shops is its commitment to ethical sourcing and direct support of artisans. The shop prioritizes pieces that showcase genuine craftsmanship and cultural authenticity rather than mass-produced items. Staff members are knowledgeable about the origins and stories behind individual products, offering personal context that transforms shopping into cultural education. This approach appeals to travelers seeking meaningful souvenirs with substance and purpose, rather than generic tourist merchandise.The Shopping Experience
The interior atmosphere balances visual richness with accessibility. Vibrant colors and intricate designs create an inviting environment that encourages leisurely browsing. The two-floor layout rewards exploration, with different sections featuring distinct categories of goods. Visitors often describe the experience as discovering an "Aladdin's Cave" of unexpected finds. The knowledgeable staff enhance the experience by sharing product stories and offering recommendations based on individual interests, whether customers seek jewelry, home furnishings, or spiritual items like singing bowls.Location and Accessibility
Situated directly opposite King's College on King's Parade, Nomads benefits from exceptional positioning within Cambridge's historic core. The location makes it effortless to incorporate into any city exploration itinerary. Visitors can easily access the shop while touring nearby colleges, the Corpus Clock, Great St Mary's Church, and Market Hill. The surrounding area bustles with complementary attractions, cafes, and restaurants, allowing for extended time in the neighborhood.Seasonal Offerings and Practical Considerations
The shop maintains regular seasonal collections, with new items frequently added to keep the inventory fresh and engaging for repeat visitors. Weekday visits typically offer a more relaxed shopping atmosphere compared to weekends, when foot traffic from tourists and locals increases. The staff can provide guidance on special promotions and highlight newly arrived pieces that may not be immediately visible during casual browsing.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Map of Cambridge
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Great St Mary's
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Cambridge Market Square
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Parade
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Quirky
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Bohemian Styles
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Sustainable
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Family Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
