Dive into the bookish wonderland of Hay-on-Wye, where cozy bookstores line cobbled streets and the smell of fresh coffee wafts through the air! Explore quaint shops bursting with charm, indulge in local delicacies, and lose track of time at the iconic Hay Festival. This quirky gem nestled in the Brecon Beacons is a reader’s paradise you won’t forget!
Landmark4.5/5
Hay Castle
Step back in time at Hay Castle, a historic gem in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye. Explore the medieval ruins and imagine the knights and nobles who once roamed its halls. Don't forget to snap a few photos for your Instagram feed! Admission is free, so grab your camera and get ready to transport yourself to the past.
Landmark4.6/5
Offa's Dyke Path National Trail
This long-distance trail follows the Welsh-English border, with a ridge walk from Capel-y-Ffin leading to a trig point.
Landmark4.5/5
Hay-on-Wye Thursday Market Day
Come explore the Hay-on-Wye Thursday Market Day at Memorial Square! Stroll through stalls of local produce, handmade crafts, and unique finds. Be sure to chat with friendly vendors and grab a bite from delicious food trucks. Don't miss this vibrant market in the heart of Hereford!
Landmark4.7/5
Hay Festival
Step into the magical world of Hay Festival, where bookworms unite in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye. From inspiring author talks to lively literary discussions, this vibrant festival is a paradise for all literature lovers. Located at 33 Brecon Rd, Hay Festival is a must-visit destination for any curious traveler seeking adventure through the pages of a good book.
Drink$$$4.2/5
The Blue Boar
Hay-on-Wye pub serving comfort food and local cider, with a beer garden at the town’s hub. The menu includes venison stew and bread-and-butter pudding.
Cafe$$$4.2/5
The Granary
Located in the book lover's paradise of Hay-on-Wye, The Granary is a charming guesthouse on Broad St. This cozy spot offers comfortable rooms with a touch of old-world charm. Just steps away from quirky bookshops and delicious cafes, it's the perfect spot to rest your head after a day of exploring this literary haven.
Eat4.7/5
Hay Conservative Club
Nestled in the charming town of Hay-on-Wye, Hay Conservative Club is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring bookshops. Enjoy a pint with friendly locals, play a game of snooker, or simply relax in the cozy atmosphere. With its convenient location on Lion St, it's a must-visit spot for any traveler in the area!
Eat$$$4.5/5
Three Tuns
This Hay-on-Wye pub serves European and Italian dishes, pours local gins, and keeps water bowls for dogs.
Stay$4.85/5
The Pavement Palace
The Pavement Palace in Hay-on-Wye offers a one-bedroom apartment with a living room. Family rooms and free WiFi ensure a pleasant stay. Guests enjoy bathrobes, streaming services, a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen. Additional features include a fireplace, tea and coffee maker, and a view of a landmark. Located on a quiet street, the apartment is steps from Hay Castle and close to Broad Street Antique & Book Centre. Cardiff Airport is 110 km away. Hiking and boating are popular nearby. Guests can also explore Hay Craft Centre and Want To Canoe.
Stay$$$4.25/5
The Old Black Lion
Surrounded by beautiful scenery but just a few minutes' walk from Hay-On-Wye's centre, this charming inn has a traditional wooden-beamed bar. Dating back hundreds of years, Oliver Cromwell is rumoured to have stayed in the 17th century. The Old Black Lion was voted 'The Best Pub in Powys' and was in the Top 8 for Wales with the 'National Pub & Bar Awards' in 2023. Our award winning 2 AA Rosette restaurant also won the prestigious Good Food Award Gold Seal for 2024. We recommend booking a meal with us via the messaging service so you can enjoy our great food and service before retiring to your room. There is also an option to order a delicious, freshly cooked breakfast using locally sourced produce on arrival or via a message beforehand for just £10pp. Each room is traditional in style, with a carpeted floor and en suite bathroom. Each also has a flat-screen TV for guests to use, and facilities for making tea and coffee.
Stay$$$4.2/5
Seven Stars
Set in the beautiful Welsh countryside, this 16th century building has been transformed into a comfortable guest house with an indoor swimming pool. This building maintains many of its original features, including oak beams and thick stone walls. The property has 8 bedrooms which all have en suite bathrooms. Centrally located within Hay-on-Wye, famous for being the ‘second-hand book capital of the world’, during your stay you can explore the town’s arts, crafts and ‘eccentric’ shops. Also nearby you can find The beautiful Cathedral City of Hereford, Brecon with its canal and Cathedral, and local castles, such as Raglan. Recommended by WHICH? Good Bed & Breakfast Guide, the Seven Stars boasts comfortable surroundings in which you can completely relax. Take a refreshing dip in the indoor swimming pool.
Stay$$$$4/5
The Swan At Hay Hotel
In Hay-on-Wye, The Swan at Hay is positioned between the Brecon Beacons and The Black Mountains. It is an independent hotel with 19 individually designed bedrooms and a restaurant serving classic British cuisine. This listed Georgian building was a former coaching inn, and many rooms have large original windows with views across the gardens or stable block. Bedrooms feature flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee trays and private bathrooms. The Swan at Hay has a relaxed bistro and a restaurant serving modern British cuisine with original Georgian windows overlooking the garden and patio. The Swan has 2 bar areas and a dining room, where guests can choose from the different menus available. The well-stocked bar serves award-winning ales and ciders. Hay-on-Wye has a good selection of boutique shops and pubs. It is only a 5-minute walk from the Offa’s Dyke Path and just a short drive from the Brecon Beacons National Park. Free parking is available at The Swan at Hay.
Stay5/5
Brick Cottage
Get ready to cozy up at Brick Cottage in Cusop! This charming brick abode features a traditional design, comfy furnishings, and picturesque views of the countryside. Located in the heart of Hay-on-Wye, this quaint retreat is the perfect spot for book lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Explore the quaint streets, visit nearby bookstores, and unwind in this peaceful getaway.
Stay3.8/5
Kilverts Inn
Beer-garden pub and inn in Hay-on-Wye, with rooms and a restaurant. Its shaded garden has flowered paths, plenty of seating, and games.
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