Page 20 - ESLH Ultimate Guide 2025 for web.indd

Hay-on-Wye

Literary • castle • Festivals •
Eclectic • Arty • Medieval

Hay-on-Wye takes you on an immersive journey amidst paved streets and rolling hills,
inviting travellers to partake in its captivating narrative.
Hay Castle stands as a medieval sentinel, array of culinary delights. In the town centre,
offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past. well populated weekly Thursday and
Local legend says it was built in a day by monthly Saturday Markets hark back to old
a Norman giantess called Matilda. In the trading traditions, with local food and drink
1960s Richard Booth bought it and began producers, craftspeople, vintage, antiques
to establish Hay as a ‘town of books’, and more purveyors of amazing finds.
declaring himself King in 1977. The town’s
reputation and bookshop volumes grew to This eclectic atmosphere extends to
its current legendary status, along with its the Winter Weekend Festival and the
famous Hay Festival showcasing famous Hay Does Vintage event, creating an
and emerging literary buffs and authors. unforgettable experience for visitors.
Meanwhile, the Castle is now in the charge Gateway to the Brecon Beacons and the
of a Trust, who, while retaining many historic spectacular Black Mountains, Hay provides
artifacts, have restored and redeveloped it an idyllic springboard for discovering
into a vibrant arts, performance and events nature’s wonders, with hiking, cycling trails
venue with an excellent cafe and year-round and breath-taking panoramic views.
reasons to visit.
See more about Hay-on-Wye on our
The world’s largest music and philosophy website under ‘The Area’ tab.
festival, HowTheLightGetsIn, annually
brings world-leading thinkers, cutting edge Photos HowTheLightGetsIn Festival | Castle Street
debate, music, performance and family fun in Hay | Hay Castle | Hay townscape by Hay Markets |
Lion Street by Hay Markets
to each May.
The town’s boutiques and craft shops Tourist Information Centre
present unique shopping in its labyrinth of
small streets. Discover artisanal eateries, Oxford Road, HR3 5DG
cafes and restaurants offering a delectable 01497 820144 hay-on-wye.co.uk

18 The ULTIMATE Guide to Herefordshire, The Wye Valley & The Marches