Ark Gift Shop
Discover handpicked treasures at Ark, where Cambridge's historic Peas Hill meets curated gifts blending local craft and whimsical charm.
Nestled on historic Peas Hill in central Cambridge, Ark is a charming gift shop offering unique, handpicked items from local artisans and global creators. Housed at 1-2 Peas Hill amid medieval surroundings, it specializes in thoughtful presents, homewares, jewelry, and stationery that capture the spirit of Cambridge's creative heritage. Open daily with extended weekday hours, it's an ideal spot for finding distinctive souvenirs near the market square and St Edward's Church. Discover curated collections blending whimsy and elegance in this pedestrian-friendly haven.
A brief summary to Ark
- 1-2 Peas Hill, Cambridge, CB2 3PP, GB
- +441223363372
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Seek out the local artisan jewelry section for unique pieces inspired by Cambridge's architecture and rivers.
- Visit midweek mornings for quieter browsing and staff recommendations on bespoke stationery.
- Pair your shop with a stroll down St Edward's Passage to King's Parade for a full historic loop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Ark location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ark
Peas Hill's Timeless Allure
Peas Hill occupies a prime position in Cambridge's medieval heart, a partly pedestrianized street linking Market Hill to the south with Wheeler Street. Once the bustling site of the city's fish market—its name likely derived from the Latin 'piscaria'—it now forms a vibrant commercial corridor flanked by historic landmarks. The imposing Guildhall anchors one side, while varied buildings from the 16th century to modern times line the other, including remnants of medieval structures. Broad and inviting, the street creates an elongated square feel, enhanced by sandstone paving and preserved granite kerbs. Extensive cellars beneath Peas Hill, spanning a quarter-acre, whisper of its layered past. Originally wine vaults, they served as air-raid shelters during World War II, adding a subterranean dimension to this unassuming thoroughfare. Glimpsed views down narrow St Edward's Passage toward King's Parade offer picturesque contrasts between intimate alleys and grand facades.Ark's Curated World of Gifts
At 1-2 Peas Hill, Ark stands as a beacon for discerning shoppers seeking more than mass-produced trinkets. This independent gift shop brims with eclectic treasures: artisanal jewelry crafted by local makers, whimsical stationery sets, elegant homewares, and bespoke accessories that evoke Cambridge's intellectual charm. Each item reflects thoughtful curation, blending contemporary design with nods to British heritage—think illustrated notebooks inspired by university spires or pottery echoing the city's riverside motifs. The shop's interior invites leisurely browsing, with shelves artfully arranged to highlight seasonal collections and one-of-a-kind finds. From scented candles capturing East Anglian botanicals to hand-stitched textiles, Ark caters to those hunting unique souvenirs or heartfelt gifts. Its location amid the historic core makes it a natural stop for visitors weaving through Cambridge's market streets.Historic Neighbors and Hidden Stories
Ark's doorstep brushes against profound history. Adjacent St Edward King and Martyr Church, dedicated to the murdered Anglo-Saxon king, cradles the English Reformation's origins—Tyndale's first sermon rang out here in 1525. The churchyard and passageways frame the shop, providing serene backdrops. Nearby, Cambridge Arts Theatre hosts Footlights performances, infusing the area with cultural energy, while the Guildhall oversees civic life. This nexus of commerce and culture underscores Peas Hill's evolution from medieval market to modern hub. Ark thrives in this context, offering gifts that complement explorations of Cambridge's layered narrative, from Reformation echoes to contemporary creativity.Everyday Rhythm on Peas Hill
Daily life pulses through Peas Hill with market vendors nearby and cyclists threading the cycle parking at its north end. Ark aligns with this rhythm, opening early weekdays at 9:30 AM until 6 PM, and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM. The street's partly pedestrian nature fosters a relaxed pace, ideal for popping in amid sightseeing. Outdoor café seating from the Guildhall spills over, tempting browsers with coffee breaks. In this compact square-like space, Ark embodies the joy of discovery—uncovering a perfect postcard or quirky ornament amid historic whispers. It's a microcosm of Cambridge: compact, characterful, and endlessly rewarding for the curious shopper.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Senate House Hill
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The Old Schools
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Bridge of Sighs
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Magdalene Bridge
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Reality Checkpoint
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Jesus Green
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Westminster College
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The Rush
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The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs, Cambridge
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Scott Polar Research Institute (Polar Museum)
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Castle Mound
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Unmissable attractions to see
University of Cambridge Museums Shop
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Cambridge Alumni Tours
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Remember Cambridge
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Discover Cambridge’s timeless charm and hidden stories on engaging walking tours led by passionate local guides.
St Bene’t’s Church
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Great St Mary's
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Map of Cambridge
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Cambridge Market Square
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Discover the vibrant heart of Cambridge’s culture and commerce at Market Square, a historic open-air market with global flavours and local crafts.
King's College, Cambridge
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Discover the breathtaking Gothic splendor and rich academic heritage of King's College, home to the iconic chapel and world-famous choir in Cambridge.
The Corpus Clock
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House of Wizard
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Market Hill
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Market Hill is Cambridge’s historic marketplace, alive with centuries of tradition, vibrant stalls, and rich community spirit at the city’s core.
Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge
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King's College Chapel
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Lion Yard
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A vibrant, centrally located shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores from budget to premium in a welcoming community setting.
Corpus Christi College
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Essential places to dine
Aromi
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Pint Shop
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Sticks'n'Sushi - Cambridge
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Bread & Meat
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Smokeworks
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Honest Burgers Cambridge
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The Cambridge Chop House
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Market House
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Trinity Restaurant
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Bill's Cambridge Restaurant
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The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
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d'Arry's Restaurant, Liquor Loft & Cheesemonger
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KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Cambridge
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Byron
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Garden House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ark
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Compact independent gift shop on historic Peas Hill serving market crowds, theatregoers and locals with curated Cambridge keepsakes.
Indelibly Cambridge
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Iris and Violet Cambridge
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Podarok
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Discover unique gifts, quirky handbags, and beautiful jewellery at Podarok, Cambridge’s independent boutique in the Arts Quarter.
Parade
0.1 km
Discover unique Cambridge souvenirs at Parade Gift Shop, perfectly located on historic King's Parade with stunning views of King's College.
Nomads
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Discover authentic handmade jewelry, textiles, and artisan crafts at Nomads, Cambridge’s vibrant gift shop celebrating global and local craftsmanship.
Souvenirs And Gifts
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Authentic Cambridge souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Market Hill.
Sugarmark!
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Capture Cambridge's charm with Sugarmark!'s iconic mugs, apparel, and prints from the heart of Market Hill—perfect souvenirs blending heritage and style.
Giles & Co
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Oliver Bonas
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The Cambridge Gift Shop
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The Department of Magical Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BrewDog Cambridge
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Bath House
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Town and Gown
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Bar -OH
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Revolution Cambridge
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The Cambridge Tap
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The Anchor
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The Castle Bar
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The Mill
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The Cambridge Brew House
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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High Five
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MASH
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Fort St George
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80s karaoke bar
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Cambridge Working Mens Club
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EBC Shop
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The Calling
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Sing Dizzy
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Rock
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The Lounge
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
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
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
