The World’s First Town of Books

Hay-On-Wye

Home to two international Festivals
Brilliant base for outdoor pursuits
Straddles the border between England & Wales

For a tiny place, Hay-on-Wye has a really big reputation. Dubbed the ‘Town of Books’ for its profusion of bookshops, Hay is also home to two international festivals: great writers, thinkers, artists and musicians share their big ideas at Hay Festival and How The Light Gets In.

Beyond its cultural life, Hay’s location makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures – hugging the River Wye, and with a foot in both England and Wales, it's a captivating place to visit for bibliophiles, walkers and water-lovers alike.

Top Highlights

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Seasonal Offerings

Hay-On-Wye in the spring

May brings two internationally renowned events: the world-famous Hay Festival and the philosophy and music festival, HowTheLightGetsIn, transforming the town into a hive of literary and cultural activity. Simply wander the streets to feel the buzz - there’s loads going on, with pop-up food trucks, impromptu shanty performances, markets in the castle grounds, and more (be sure to book accommodation early).

Discover carpets of wild bluebells in ancient Mousecastle Wood, and see the glorious daffodil season that arrives with St David's Day. Take a scenic hike following the Offa's Dyke Path, or explore the dramatic ridges of the nearby Black Mountains. Finally, dodge any spring showers by grabbing a coffee and perusing the shelves at the iconic Richard Booth's Bookshop. Browse the weekly Thursday market and check out the extended version on the first Saturday of the month (April - October).

Hay-On-Wye in the summer

The best place to while away a summer’s day in Hay is The Warren, a picturesque riverside meadow perfect for a day of sunbathing, wild swimming, and skimming stones. Stock up on ultimate local picnic provisions from the Hay Deli and grab a coffee at The Old Electric Shop before strolling down to secure your spot beside the waters of the Wye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hire a canoe or paddleboard and meander down the river, then cool off back in town with a famous sheep’s milk ice cream from Shepherds Parlour. Come evening, enjoy al fresco drinks and live music at The Globe, or keep your eyes peeled for the pop-up wine bar that occasionally appears in the community garden! Plus, browse the weekly Thursday market and check out the extended version on the first Saturday of the month (April - October).

Hay-On-Wye in the autumn

A wonderfully cosy atmosphere takes over Hay-on-Wye come autumn. Heading up to the top of the Hay Castle tower for elevated views of the autumn colours sweeping across the valley and the Black Mountains. The season is packed with cultural highlights, starting with the Hay Music Festival in September, followed by the castle's fascinating Fungi Festival in October.

In late November, the town lights up for the Hay Festival Winter Weekend, bringing an intimate, magical literary buzz back to the streets. While away an afternoon curled up with a great read (and a glass of red) next to a crackling log burner in the Blue Boar pub. Browse the weekly Thursday market, and check out the extended version on the first Saturday of the month (running through to October).

Hay-On-Wye in the winter

Winter in Hay-on-Wye is pretty magical. The quaint streets take on a festive glow as the Christmas lights are switched-on, drawing a lively crowd and usually a famous face to do the honours! Hay's incredible array of independent stores and bookshops are ideal for finding truly unique gifts to tick off your Christmas shopping.

The festive continues as Christmas markets wind through the streets and pop up at Hay Castle too. For those with a wilder sense of adventure, winter offers a dramatically different landscape. When the snow falls, it blankets the nearby Black Mountains, making for a bracing, scenic hike up the Hay Buff (or fun sledging if you’ve got little ones in tow). Seasonal menus will be on offer at the town's many gastronomic hot spots, including Chapters, renowned for its Michelin Green Star.

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