hotel collections compiled by travel experts
Discover Hay-on-Wye | Recommended Places to Stay & Visit
On the Welsh-English border, Hay-on-Wye, affectionately known as "the town of books," is a bibliophile’s paradise with an enchanting rural backdrop. This small, picturesque town, on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that makes it a fascinating destination for visitors.
Hay-on-Wye is most famous for its staggering number of bookshops. With nearly two dozen bookstores packed into its quaint streets, the town is a haven for book lovers. Each store has its own character, ranging from the sprawling, rambling shelves of Richard Booth's Bookshop, the self-proclaimed "largest secondhand bookstore in Europe," to smaller niche shops that specialize in genres like mysteries, children’s literature, or rare collectibles. Exploring these bookshops is akin to a treasure hunt, where you never know what gems you will discover next.
But Hay-on-Wye isn’t just about books. The town is also renowned for the Hay Festival, an annual literature and arts festival that attracts writers, poets, philosophers, and thinkers from around the world. Held in late May to early June, the festival transforms Hay into a vibrant hub of intellectual and creative activity. For anyone interested in the arts, planning a visit during the festival is highly recommended as the town buzzes with workshops, talks, and performances.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding Brecon Beacons provide a perfect setting for a range of activities. Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are popular, with several trails offering stunning views and peaceful countryside. The Wye Valley, through which the River Wye meanders, is especially picturesque and ideal for canoeing or fishing. Whether you are wandering through open fields, scaling Pen y Fan (the highest peak in South Wales), or strolling beside the river, Hay’s landscapes offer a refreshing contrast to its book-lined streets.
Practical advice for visiting Hay-on-Wye includes planning your travel around either the Hay Festival if you are interested in a lively atmosphere, or outside of festival times if you prefer a quieter visit. Accommodation options in Hay are charming and characterful, ranging from cosy bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels.
Dining in Hay-on-Wye can be an experience in itself, with local pubs and cafés offering hearty Welsh dishes and international cuisine. Don’t miss trying a traditional Welsh cake or a slice of rarebit. For those looking to explore local crafts and produce, the Thursday market in the town centre is a must-visit. It's a great place to pick up artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs.
Access to Hay-on-Wye is straightforward via road from major cities like Cardiff, Birmingham, and London, although public transport options are somewhat limited. The closest railway stations are in Hereford and Abergavenny, with local bus services providing connections to Hay.