About Us

Home Grown Hobby

In their own words, opening a hobby shop was the stupidest thing that Galli and Nick ever decided to do. And that is saying something. Neither had owned their own business before, and so neither really knew what they were doing. But they were passionate about various things like Magic the Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer.

Meeting one another in 2022, they quickly became friends down at their local pub, The Bear and Ragged Staff. And while their jobs at the time were very different, they both decided to do something together. But what to do, create another coffee shop?

The mutual interest in all things fantasy, miniatures and general roleplaying seemed to be a good idea. After all, there was nothing in Kenilworth that offered such a location for like-minded people.

So the idea was created. And like a seed, it grew into Viking & Swiss.

The “Viking” part of the name comes from the fact that Galli has a love for and affinity towards Norse Mythology. If you look closely, you may even notice that the logo consists of Younger Futhark Runes! He has also set up an alter in the back of the shop venerating Njörðr, the Norse God most associated with merchants and trade!

The “Swiss” idea comes from the fact that Nick – while born in the UK – has spent more years living in Switzerland than he has spent being in the UK. Just don’t ask him where the gold is…

Viking & Swiss have a simple idea: to have a safe space for everyone to come and have fun. We aim to cater to whoever is looking for items, kits, dice or advice. We also look forward to holding events for any and all games, as well as offering tables during the day for people to come in when they have time in order to sit down with like-minded people who love the hobbies as much as we do.

So feel free to pass by, have a look around and maybe join us for some painting or playing!