Your Guide to
Hay-on-Wye

“A bibliophile’s dream”
Famous for its antiquarian bookshops, majestic castles and an annual festival that draws in literary talent from across the world, Hay-on-Wye is a honeypot of culture and character.
Located in a unique position on the border between England and Wales, its plethora of art galleries, antique emporiums and bookshops filled with stories bound in leather and decorative cloth provide the perfect backdrop for a day excursion, city break or longer stay.
Wandering the streets of Hay-on-Wye, it’s hard not to get lost in its history, with streets lined by old stone buildings, timbered houses and of course, the gateway to the town’s spellbinding Norman castle which towers over the streets below its ancient walls.
At the castle, you can get up close to its evocative wooden gates, feast your eyes on an original stone trebuchet ball, and even try on medieval outfits. If that’s not enough, journey to the top of the castle to experience breathtaking views of Hay-on-Wye.
Weave through Hay’s narrow streets and delight at a treasure trove of vintage shops, book stores and elegant restaurants where you can get a true taste for the culinary delights of Herefordshire.
Journey out of the town for miles of wild countryside, including that of the Brecon Beacons National Park, where you can walk, cycle or ride to your heart’s content. Alternatively, take a trip down the nearby River Wye to experience a rich mosaic of babbling waterscapes, woodland and waterfalls.
We hope you enjoy your stay in this much-loved part of the country. To help you plan your days we’ve put together a collection of our favourite experiences, so you can make the most of Hay-on-Wye and the areas that frame it.
Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye
Once a great medieval stronghold, Hay Castle and its grounds hold many layers of history ripe for exploring. Whether you visit for a couple hours, or spend the whole day there, you’re invited to revel in the beautifully restored keep, feel inspired by the art gallery, or join one of the castle’s creative workshops. There’s also a fantastic café on-site providing homemade delights, fresh coffee and tea.
St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye
Spend an afternoon exploring the history of St Mary’s Church – where everything from Gothic architecture to stained glass windows and a Norman crypt awaits. Fact: This is the smallest, most ancient Christian site in the whole of Hay-on-Wye.
Longtown Castle, Hereford
Delight at this magnificent, thick-walled round keep dating from the mid-12th century, nestled on a large earthen mound within a stone-walled bailey – and if that’s not enough, majestic views of the Black Mountains make this spot all the more enchanting.
Arthur’s Stone, Dorstone
This atmospheric Neolithic burial chamber consists of great stone slabs set in the hills surrounding Herefordshire’s Golden Valley. Legend has it that it was here that King Arthur slew a giant that left a mark of his elbows on one of the stones as he toppled over.
Llanthony Priory, Llanthony
Discover the pristine pointed arches and richly decorated red stonework of these 900-year old ruins. Made all the more special through their location beneath the borderland Black Mountains in the Vale of Ewyas, head here for a true taste of Welsh medieval history.
Snodhill Castle, Peterchurch
Six miles east of Hay-on-Wye, in Herefordshire’s breathtaking Golden Valley, lies Snodhill Castle. Once forgotten and neglected for 350 years, it’s now been excavated and restored, and is recognized as one of the UK’s most ancient, and unusual Norman castles. Take one of many meandering footpaths around the castle to explore its medieval landscape setting.
Tretower Court & Castle, Cadw
Experience the spellbinding atmosphere of Tretower Court and Castle. With its four storey high monumental tower, a great hall laid out just as it might be in the 1460s, and a recreated 15th century garden to discover, a day visit here is a fascinating passage through time.
Croft Castle, Leominster
Surrounded by enchanting woodland, this elegant country house makes for a wonderful day out. Explore beautifully detailed rooms, take a guided tour, and then walk one of the trails surrounding this bewitching stone property.
The Weir Garden, Hereford
This elegant garden has a rich history, dating from the Roman empire all the way to modern use as a family garden. On visiting, discover the stories of times past and delight at the abundance of beautiful flora, fauna and flowers that call this place home.
Offa’s Dyke Path
This historic 82-mile earthen bank was constructed by the King of Mercia in an attempt to control the Welsh. At 177 miles long, it takes 12 days to hike the entire route from Chepstow to Prestatyn through three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you’re in Hay-on-Wye, try Stage 4 of the trail, which runs from the town to Kington, via Western Herefordshire and South Powys.
Richard Booths Bookshop, Hay-on-Wye
One of Hay-on-Wye’s most famous spots, Booths is not only a fascinating bookshop, but it has a cinema and café burrowed behind its ornate frontage. Traversing three floors, you’ll find a dynamic mix of old and new titles, knowledgeable staff and a relaxing ambience at this charming place.
Black Mountains Botanicals Gin Making, Hereford
Spend a fascinating afternoon at this award-winning distillery. With a master distiller on hand to give you all the training you need, you’ll distil your own personal bottle of gin, get a tour of the distillery room and be taught the whole process of gin making from start to finish. Cheers to that!
The Globe, Hay-on-Wye
An independent arts centre hosting live music, art and community – The Globe at Hay is a cultural venue embracing the changing arts landscape in all its glory. Contributing to Hay’s already rich well of creativity, this is your destination for poetry readings, workshops, philosophical talks and so much more.
The Lion Street Gallery, Hay-on-Wye
Showcasing some of the best creative talent in Wales and its borders is The Lion Street Gallery. With a 14 year history in Hay, expect expressionist landscapes, acrylics, sculpture and charcoal art from local visionaries.
Hay Cinema Bookshop, Hay-on-Wye
Feast your eyes on over 200,000 print, remainders and secondhand books at Hay Cinema Bookshop. At the front of the shop, you’ll find reprints of classic books and poetry for just a few pounds. Wander upstairs to discover one of the town’s most extensive secondhand book collections, and a plethora of antiquarian titles.
Drover Cycles, Hay-on-Wye
This fully stocked shop, repair centre and on-site café has mountain bikes to hire and knowledgeable staff that can advise on plenty of off-road routes. Choose one of many natural trails that weave across the Brecon Beacons National Park and stop for coffee and cake after your ride.
The Warren, Hay-on-Wye
For hundreds of years, this delightful riverside meadow has been lovingly known as The Warren by locals. A designated area of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), it’s believed to have been used for the breeding of rabbits during medieval times. Enjoy walks along the secluded pebble beach, skim stones across the water or take a picnic.
Haystacks Music, Hay-on-Wye
Discover a world of vinyl records, CDs, books and more at this intriguing treasure trove situated in the heart of the town. Whether you’re into rock, soul, pop or even psychedelic, there’s thousands of items to choose from at this musical hotspot.
The Haymakers Gallery, Hay-on-Wye
Situated in the centre of Hay-on-Wye, seven brilliant artists come together to form The Haymakers Gallery, where you’ll find a whole spectrum of mediums, from ceramics to embroidery, felt and stone that invite you to explore the rich creative talent of the Wye Valley.
The Orgasmic Cider Company, Hereford
Experience over 100 acres of cider and perry orchards before enjoying a delicious drink amidst beautiful surroundings. Producing cider and juice from a large variety of apples including white jersey, stoke red and brown snout, this award-winning farm makes for a fantastic way to connect with Herefordshire’s long history of beverage production.
Drovers Rest Farm Kitchen, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: dinner, special occasions
The brainchild of South African owners who left the corporate life for simpler ways, this 16th century organic farm is tucked away at the foothills of the Black Mountains in Herefordshire’s Golden Valley. If that’s not enough to draw you in already, there’s wild feasts cooked on fire, dirty burgers and Asian street food that will leave your tastebuds tingling for days.
King Street Kitchen, Hereford
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, tea and cake, takeaway
Celebrating independent, local makers and suppliers King Street Kitchen serve from breakfast through to lunch. The supply of cakes changes daily, and a takeaway service is also available.
Chapters Restaurant, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: dinner, Sunday lunch
On a mission to support small scale producers, Chapters in Hay-on-Wye offers an intimate dining experience using sustainable ingredients. Get your tastebuds going with both meat and vegetarian dishes that use pickles, ferments, salt cures and purees to capture the seasons.
The Felin Fach Griffin, Brecon
Perfect for: lunch, dinner
Enjoy warmth and character at this Michelin-star restaurant buried between the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons National Park. Taking a considered approach, its organic kitchen garden provides herbs, vegetables and fruit which chefs use to conjure up simple yet delicious plates. This place is dog-friendly too, so don’t forget your furry friend.
Off Grid Gourmet, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: dinner, special occasions
Good food in a beautiful, rustic setting – this passion project sees its founder offer a high-end dining experience across the 10 days of the Hay Festival, using only off grid resources. Expect dining under the evening sun aside other foodies, all enjoying the likes of homemade bread, harissa smoked cauliflower and chocolate fondant atop a trestle table.
The Old Electric Coffee Bar, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: coffee, food to go
Tuck into rich coffee, loose leaf tea and baked goods at this relaxed café on Broad Street. Just next door is a fantastical shop full of quirky vintage finds to explore, while this place also hosts the occasional live music event in
the evenings.
Hay Castle Café, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: coffee, brunch, lunch
Fluffy pancakes with local berry compote, white milk loaf toasties, Welsh rarebit with tomato and apple chutney – the café at Hay Castle offers the most delicious post-exploration delights. Known for its bright, contemporary atmosphere and delicious food, this place is well worth a visit after a wander around the ruins.
The Cosy Café, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: coffee, cake, freshly made food
Lined with plants and bright tiles, this charming café is your spot to while away the hours over a hot drink and sweet treat. We love the friendly feel to this little nook – perfect for rainy days or a midday pit stop.
Tomatitos Tapas Bar, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: lunch, dinner
Tuck into mouthwatering olives, tortillas and calamari at Tomatitos. Celebrated for its authentic food and lively atmosphere, you’ll find yourself craving their delectable menu long after leaving. We’ll have the Patatas Bravos!
The Old Black Lion, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, drinks
With its classic appearance and friendly ambience, this is a popular spot for delicious, locally-sourced food. Choose the cosy restaurant, the marquee outside or the bar, and don’t forget to grab a refreshing cask ale or cider.
The Swan at Hay Hotel, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: Sunday lunch, afternoon tea
Enjoy a modern menu featuring seasonal Welsh dishes, fish and vegetarian options, or choose a classic afternoon tea at this tranquil spot. Nestled in a charming, four star Georgian hotel, we love this place for a celebration with friends and family.
The Sandwich Cellar, Hay-on-Wye
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, vegan/vegetarian
Delight at all things bread at this lovely little spot. Offering everything from hot and cold sandwiches to paninis and toasties, tray bakes and cakes, there’s simply so much to choose from here. Plus, dogs are welcome, and the café even provides leads and carabiners to tie to wall eyelets, so you can relax with your pooch beside you.
Hereford Cathedral, Hereford
Dominating the skyline of Hereford, this gothic cathedral is home to a community that has worked and worshipped together continuously for over 1,300 years. Not only that, but it holds the historic Mappa Mundi – a globally-recognized medieval map crafted from a single sheet of calf skin.
The Golden Valley
Roam miles of rolling hills in Herefordshire’s Golden Valley – a wild, untamed part of the county, carved between two river valleys and the Black Mountains. Whether your choose a road trip, cycle or explore by foot, expect charming rural communities in the form of Dorstone, Peterchurch and Ewyas Harold, remote ruins, and an atmospheric burial stone.
Gwernyfed Walled Garden, Brecon
This historic glasshouse and walled garden provides a pleasant day out. With a large variety of plants on offer, it’s a must if you’re looking for new greenery. There’s also a café serving loose leaf tea, fresh ground coffee, light lunches and delicious cakes.
Titley Pool Nature Reserve, Kington
Visit this serene natural pool – one of several naturally formed lakes in an area of low rounded hills formed from Ice Age debris. Remember to keep an eye out for great crested grebes, orange tip butterflies and tufted ducks before exploring the delightful meadow nearby.
Brobury House & Gardens, Brobury
Set on the banks of the River Wye, these terraced gardens make for a beautiful way to spend the afternoon. Covering 8 acres, follow weaving paths to explore lush green foliage, colour pop flowers and rolling views of the Herefordshire countryside. This place is dog-friendly and has a charming café offering homemade cakes, and coffee from local business, Black Mountain Roast.
The Sidney Nolan Trust, Presteigne
Learn about the life and work of Sidney Nolan – one of Australia’s leading artists of the 20th century. Celebrating his life-long passion for creativity and the environment, you can see a large collection of Nolan’s work, his library and personal archive, before exploring the grounds.
Talybont-on-Usk
Spend the day at this gorgeous village in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Apt for walking, cycling mountain biking or canoeing, this special place has something for everyone. Once you’ve explored the natural landscape, check out some of the charming local craft shops where you’ll uncover glass art, jewellery and vintage clothes.
Waterworks Museum, Hereford
Established in 1974, the Waterworks Museum is situated in a historic Victorian water pumping station and has exhibits covering the history of drinking water from prehistoric times to present day. After exploring the museum’s many engines and pumps, visit the café for a hot drink and delicious scone.
National Trust Croft Castle, Yarpole
Croft Castle is more stately manor than traditional castle having been the home of the Croft family for hundreds of years. The estate was first mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1085 and it has gathered a diverse history since. Today you can explore the decadent rooms and uncover the stories this castle has to tell. Outside, the walled garden dates back to 1823 and has a small vineyard.
Celtic Canoes, Glasbury
Take a captivating trip down the majestic River Wye with this local canoe hire company. Founded by a close-knit group of outdoor enthusiasts, every expedition is carefully crafted to ensure an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re embarking on a river trip as a couple, with friends, or taking the kids.
Rowlestone Farmhouse Ice Cream, Rowlestone
Visit the cows behind the award-winning ice cream at Rowlestone Farm. There are country walks around the surrounding area, a play area and of course you can meet the highland cattle and maybe spot rabbits, foxes, and deer. At the ice cream parlour, you can choose a more traditional flavour or try whisky and orange marmalade or cider!
Matrix, Hereford
There is so much on offer at Matrix – the perfect choice for rainy days. With something for all ages, you can play classic games in the arcade, battle the zombie outbreak in laser tag, play a round of mini golf in space, compete in axe throwing, try out virtual reality or challenge your family to a game of ping pong. There’s also a café on-site to keep you fueled for the day.
Black Mountain Adventure, Brecon
Have a go at something new with Black Mountain Adventure. Whether you try a gorge adventure, archery or watersports, you’ll be amazed at the breadth of things to do at this accredited centre. It’s open 7 days a week, so there’s plenty of flexibility for your visit.
Llangorse Multi Activity Centre, Llangorse
Offering epic views of the Brecon Beacons National Park, this fun activity centre covers all bases – from indoor rock climbing, adventure activities, horse riding and aerial zip line tours.
Hereford Canoe Hire, Hereford
Near Hereford is one of the quietest sections of the River Wye, making it a safe space for families. Choose a relaxing afternoon spotting wildlife and enjoying the country views flowing past you. You can hire a canoe for a few hours or book a trip down river. Due to the strong flow of the River Wye, you aren’t able to paddle upstream, but the tour service provides transport back to your starting point.
Flip Out, Hereford
The perfect choice for children with a lot of energy to burn! This inflatable play park has obstacles, slides, leaps of faith, a toddler section, walls to climb and so much more to run, jump and bounce through.
Small Breeds Farm Park, Kington
Spend time with the many rare, miniature, and all-round adorable animals at the Small Breed Farm Park. Pygmy goats are a favourite, there are miniature horses, guinea pigs, rabbits, a collection of colourful birds and red squirrels. There is also an owl garden here with over 30 species from around the world. In Spring and Summer you can see the baby owlets.
Drovers Rest Farm, Hay-on-Wye
Book ahead to let your children play and learn at this organic farm. Get up close to the farm animals on a guided safari where you can enter the pens and feed the animals while learning more about them. Book a campfire experience, a craft or outdoor cooking workshop or pony ride, and then stay for a street food feast or Sunday lunch. The adults can enjoy the cocktail bar!
The Viking Games, Ewyas Harold
Become a Viking for the day and try out six traditional Nordic games. Compete against each other to decide the victor who will be named a true Viking warrior. The games include axe throwing, archery, bullrings, kubb also known as ‘throwing logs’, molky which is similar to skittles, and stige which involves throwing stringed balls to wrap around the rung of a ladder.
Bryngwyn Riding Centre, Kington
This family-run riding stables offers lessons and hacks whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced saddle goer. With miles of beautiful Welsh countryside to enjoy by horseback, this special spot is a wonderful day out for all the family. Don’t forget to keep an eye on their ‘What’s On’ page for pony mornings and parties!
Holmer Park Club & Spa, Hereford
Luxurious treatments meet a relaxed ambience and state-of-the-art gym when it comes to Holmer Park Club & Spa. Priding itself on both a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, this award-winning spa is based around the principle of booking time, not treatments, with hosts tailoring treatments around your bespoke needs.
Holme Lacy House Spa, Hereford
Set in 20 acres of mint green gardens, this Georgian manor house plays host to the most rejuvenating spa experience. On offer are aromatherapy massages, a sauna, steam room and gym, and a scrumptious
afternoon tea.
Wye Leisure Spa, Fownhope
Situated in the idyllic village of Fownhope, this private health and leisure club is your invitation to switch off and decompress. Book in for a treatment to relax your body and mind or spend some time lounging by the pool. There’s plenty of space with five spa pools, two steam rooms and three saunas.
Please Note: Information correct at time of publishing. Please check the destination/attraction direct website before visiting to confirm opening hours and visitor details.