Exploring Cambridge Through 5 Unique Shops

Famous for its academic prestige, punting, and satchels, Cambridge's shopping experience often gets dismissed, much like its nightlife.

As a teenager, I was captivated by the allure of budget-friendly fast fashion, wandering through shopping malls and chain stores that could be found in any UK city. Now, after a year as editor of a local lifestyle magazine, I've shifted my focus from the high street to the city's hidden and often underappreciated indie shops.

With tourism being vital to Cambridge's economy, the city center has become filled with souvenir shops and official university merchandise, while many iconic brands have lost their independent status to larger ownership. However, if you venture beyond King’s Parade and the historic center (be sure to grab a Chelsea bun from the beloved Fitzbillie’s), you'll discover a vibrant independent scene just waiting to be explored.

Top spot for souvenirs: Cambridge Market

The historic market square has been the heart of trade in the city since medieval times. Today, beneath its vibrant awnings, you'll find 100 diverse stalls bustling with activity. It’s an ideal place for lunch, best enjoyed by the fountain in the center, where you can choose from a variety of options, including Greek gyros, currywurst (German sausage with curry sauce), and fresh Cambridgeshire strawberries. While rising rents in the city center have led to a more uniform high street that can push out small businesses, the marketplace thrives as a creative hub for local artisans. Here, you can find handwoven baskets or eco-friendly cosmetics from The Essential Soaps, crafted right in Cambridge. A personal favorite is Glenys Self, known for her handmade jewelry—perfect gifts for loved ones back home. I often wear her lightweight gold vermeil hoops (£12.50) and rarely leave the house without them.

Top choice for design: Fridge

True to its name, this trendy preloved clothing boutique is located on one of my favorite streets in Cambridge. The crowds thin out as you cross the bridge that gave the city its name, and the architecture feels like a step back in time, with the city’s oldest pub, The Pickerel Inn, and charming Tudor houses close together. Despite its small size, Magdalene Street is known for its independent shops, including the designer vintage store Fridge. Owner Elis Haddock has curated an impressive selection that highlights street style, particularly Japanese and Italian designs. While prices can be high, I’ve spent many a Saturday morning admiring standout investment pieces like a 1990s belted Burberry Mac (£175). Expect a mix of Carhartt WIP and Stüssy, along with treasures from Issey Miyake and Comme Des Garçons.

Best for vintage/thrift: Relevant Records

Mill Road is a treasure for second-hand lovers, offering a refreshing escape from the busy historic city center. This mile-long stretch is arguably Cambridge’s trendiest neighborhood, filled with quirky cafes, foodie spots, charity shops, and a multitude of antique stores. For the past decade, Relevant Records has been a beloved hub for vinyl enthusiasts, showcasing friendly staff, a relaxed atmosphere, and a strong community vibe. Enjoy a fairy-lit café upstairs serving a delightful Mexican brunch (£10.25), but the real highlight is the basement, where an unmatched vinyl collection awaits in a setting reminiscent of a 1970s living room. Alongside a rich selection of pre-loved records, you’ll also find new releases and reissues that promise delightful surprises. I recently discovered a 12″ of CAN's Ege Bamyasi (£23.99).

Top choice for food: Jack’s Gelato

Launched by local Jack van Praag in 2010 to elevate Cambridge’s culinary reputation at reasonable prices, this gelato shop has built a devoted following. Rain or shine, expect a line that stretches halfway down Bene’t Street, past the iconic The Eagle. The menu changes daily, featuring an eclectic mix of flavors, but my go-to is the Roasted Banana (£2.90 for a single scoop). In addition to rich classics like Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt, be ready for some adventurous pairings—how about sweet potato and marshmallow? Don’t miss the daily mystery flavor. For a quieter experience, visit Jack’s smaller, less-known location tucked away down All Saints Passage, where you’ll feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden gem.

Top pick for books: G. David Bookseller

As home to the UK’s second-oldest university, Cambridge is synonymous with scholarship, yet it surprisingly lacks a wealth of independent bookstores for such a literary-minded city. While it may not hold the title of the oldest (that belongs to the University Press Bookshop), G. David Bookseller offers a uniquely inviting atmosphere. Tucked away in the picturesque St. Edward’s Passage, it began in 1896 as a bookstall in the market run by the Parisian Gustave David and has since become an integral part of the city’s identity. Still managed by Gustave’s descendant, it is a haven for book lovers, characterized by the delightful musty scent of its secondhand books. The antiquarian section resembles a museum, showcasing countless first editions, including works by Darwin and Dickens, and the shop was honored to hold items from Stephen Hawking’s library. I particularly enjoy browsing the bargain bins outside, where I often find delightful secondhand paperbacks—most recently, a lovely Vintage Penguin collection by Dorothy Parker (£2).