Custom House Shop and Gallery, Cardigan
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage in a historic 18th-century customs house on Cardigan’s oldest street.
The Custom House Shop and Gallery is a charming gift shop located at 44 St Mary Street in Cardigan, West Wales. Housed in a historic 18th-century customs building, it offers a unique collection of locally made crafts and handmade gifts. The gallery spans two landmark buildings on one of Cardigan’s oldest streets, blending heritage with contemporary artisan creations. Open six days a week, it is a delightful stop for discovering Welsh artistry and heritage.
A brief summary to Custom House Shop And Gallery
- 44 St Mary St, Cardigan, SA43 1HA, GB
- +441239615541
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter browsing experience and to chat with knowledgeable staff about local artisans.
- Explore the adjacent historic buildings on St Mary Street to fully appreciate Cardigan’s heritage.
- Look for seasonal collections and limited-edition crafts, especially around holidays.
- Combine your visit with nearby cultural attractions like Cardigan Castle for a full day of heritage exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service to Cardigan town center, which runs frequently from nearby towns such as Aberystwyth and Haverfordwest. The bus stop is about a 5-minute walk from St Mary Street. Tickets cost approximately £3-£7 depending on the starting point, and services operate daily but less frequently on Sundays.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest train station is in Carmarthen, about 40 km away. From Carmarthen, take a taxi to Cardigan town center, which takes around 45 minutes and costs roughly £40-£50. Train services to Carmarthen are regular from major cities like Cardiff and Swansea.
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Car
Driving to Cardigan is straightforward via the A487 coastal road. Parking is available in nearby public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk of St Mary Street. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 per hour. Note that the town center has some pedestrianized areas, so check local signage.
Custom House Shop And Gallery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Custom House Shop And Gallery
A Historic Setting in Cardigan’s Oldest Street
The Custom House Shop and Gallery is nestled within two of Cardigan’s landmark 18th-century buildings at 44 and 45 St Mary Street, one of the town’s oldest thoroughfares. Originally serving as the town’s customs house, this historic site reflects Cardigan’s maritime and trading heritage. The architecture retains period features that evoke the building’s past while providing a charming backdrop for the gallery and shop. Visitors can appreciate the blend of history and craftsmanship as they explore the premises.A Curated Collection of Local Craftsmanship
Inside, the shop showcases a carefully curated selection of handmade gifts and crafts created by local artisans. This includes unique textiles, pottery, jewelry, and artwork that celebrate Welsh culture and creativity. The gallery emphasizes quality and originality, offering visitors authentic souvenirs and gifts that reflect the region’s artistic traditions. The range of products is diverse, catering to various tastes while supporting the local creative community.Engaging Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere within the Custom House Shop and Gallery is warm and inviting, with a focus on personal service and storytelling behind each item. The layout encourages browsing and discovery, making it a relaxed environment for shoppers and art lovers alike. The shop’s location on a historic street adds to its quaint charm, making it a perfect spot to pause and absorb the local culture. Seasonal displays and special collections often add new interest throughout the year.Operating Hours and Accessibility
The gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on Sundays. This schedule allows ample opportunity for visitors to explore at their leisure during the week or weekend. The building’s central location in Cardigan makes it accessible for most visitors, with nearby amenities and other cultural attractions enhancing the visit. While the historic nature of the building adds character, it may present some accessibility considerations for those with mobility challenges.Supporting Cardigan’s Cultural Heritage
Beyond being a retail space, the Custom House Shop and Gallery serves as a cultural hub that promotes local heritage and craftsmanship. It contributes to the preservation of Cardigan’s historic identity while fostering contemporary artistic expression. The shop supports local makers by providing a platform to reach visitors and locals alike, strengthening community ties and sustaining traditional skills in a modern context.A Destination for Thoughtful Gifts and Artistic Finds
Whether you are seeking a special gift or a unique keepsake, the Custom House Shop and Gallery offers an array of options that reflect the spirit of West Wales. Its combination of historic ambiance, quality craftsmanship, and community focus makes it a standout destination in Cardigan’s vibrant town center. Visitors leave not only with beautiful items but also with a deeper appreciation of the region’s artistic and cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardigan Walks
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Cardigan Guildhall Market
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Sloeberry Farm
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St Clears Castle
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Dyfed Powys Police Federation
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Castell Talacharn / Laugharne Castle
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Welsh Spitfire Museum
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Haverfordwest Priory
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Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tigers Eye
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Cardigan Castle
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The Cellar
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Cambrian Quay
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Tranquil waterfront with stunning views over Cardigan Bay, home to native dolphins and rich maritime heritage.
PuffMami Makes
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Visit Cardigan
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Food For Thought
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Cardigan Cenotaph
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A dignified memorial in Cardigan’s Victoria Gardens honoring local heroes lost in the World Wars, inviting reflection and remembrance.
Welsh Wildlife Centre
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A Bay To Remember
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Experience thrilling wildlife boat trips in Cardigan Bay, spotting dolphins, seals, and seabirds on safe, family-friendly RIB tours from St Dogmaels.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Trail
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National Trust - Cilgerran Castle
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Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park
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Cardigan Island
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Mwnt Beach
6.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Crowes
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Yr Hen Printworks
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Mannucci’s Italian Restaurant
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DeeGee's
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The Grosvenor
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The Priory Restaurant
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Crwst
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Pizzatipi
0.2 km
Rustic wood-fired pizzas served riverside under a giant tipi in the heart of Cardigan.
Catch of the Day Fishmongers and Fishermans Rest Cafe
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The Copper Pot
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Shampan Cardigan Restaurant
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The Ferry Inn
1.6 km
Scenic riverside gastropub in St Dogmaels offering fresh Welsh cuisine, warm service, and stunning Teifi estuary views.
Caemorgan Mansion
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Elegant Georgian guest house offering historic charm and tranquil comfort near Cardigan Bay's scenic coast.
Awl Mor Restaurant
2.7 km
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Teifi Waterside Hotel
2.7 km
Peaceful seaside hotel with stunning estuary views, comfortable rooms, and access to historic Welsh coastal attractions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
MIKE’S SHOP
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Labels For Less
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Solo Clothing, Cardigan
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The Works
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The Eco Shop
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Discover sustainable treasures and community spirit at The Eco Shop, Cardigan’s beloved secondhand store.
Awen Teifi
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Discover Welsh culture and literature at Awen Teifi, Cardigan’s beloved bookshop and gift store brimming with local charm and creativity.
The Original Factory Shop (Cardigan)
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Discover unbeatable discounts on clothing, beauty, and homeware at Cardigan’s friendly and budget-conscious Original Factory Shop.
The prep shop uk
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Cardigan’s trusted army and navy surplus shop offering authentic military gear, prepping supplies, and outdoor equipment for enthusiasts and adventurers.
Cardigan Antiques & Collectables
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U Melt Me and Gifts
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Apricot
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Saltrock Cardigan
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ADERYN
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Tŷ Hafan Shop
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The Cardigan Bay Collective
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 45
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Saddlers Arms
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The Lamb Inn
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The Castle Inn
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Albion Aberteifi
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Penybryn Arms
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Cardiff Arms
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The Cliff Hotel & Spa
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The Ship Bar & Grill
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Ship Inn, Tresaith
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Llwyngwair Arms
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Dyffryn Arms
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Tafarn Sinc.
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Royal Oak
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Penrhiwgaled Arms
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Lucifer's Nightlife
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Eddie Rocks
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Sands Nightclub
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Hazewell Club
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Comlongon
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The Star Club
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OUT Clubs
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Paddles
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OUT VIP Cocktail Lounge and Night Venue
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Boulevard Show Bar
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The Basement
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Yokoswnb
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Pier Pressure
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The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
63.0 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
