If you’re looking for a destination that blends rich culture, stunning scenery, and timeless charm, Hay-on-Wye should be at the top of your list. Tucked away on the border between England and Wales, this enchanting market town is world-renowned as the “Town of Books” and it offers much more than just a love of literature.


With its winding streets, historic buildings, riverside walks and almost 30 independent bookshops, Hay-on-Wye is a perfect getaway.


📚 A Town Built on Books


Hay’s transformation into a bookish wonderland began in the 1960s when eccentric bookseller, Richard Booth declared himself the“King of Hay” and declared the town an independent kingdom. His mission? To put Hay on the map by turning it into the world’s first book town, and he succeeded.


Today, Hay boasts almost 30 bookshops, some packed into Georgian townhouses, others hidden in alleyways, or tucked inside former chapels and cinemas. Here, you’ll find everything from antique first editions to contemporary paperbacks, maps, poetry, rare manuscripts, and out-of-print treasures.


Don’t miss:

• Richard Booth’s Bookshop – A cathedral of books with its own cinema.
• The Poetry Bookshop – Entirely dedicated to poetry, and one of the last of its kind.
• Addyman Books – Quirky and colourful, with themed rooms and hidden nooks.
• Hay Castle Grounds – An open-air honesty bookstall set against a castle wall.


📆 Festivals


• Late May - Hay is home to the internationally celebrated Hay Festival. This award-winning event brings together authors and artists for ten days of inspiring talks, performances and workshops. (Pro tip: book accommodation early!). Also, at the end of May is How the Light Gets In, a river side festival full of philosophy and music festival that explores big ideas and current issues through talks, debates, and performances.

• End of November - There’s also the Hay Festival Winter Weekend, a smaller-scale festival held each November, complete with festive lights, Christmas markets and literary events.


🏰 Hay Castle: A New Chapter


After years of restoration, Hay Castle has reopened - visitors can now explore exhibitions, climb the medieval tower, or attend talks and events overlooking the River Wye. It’s a wonderful blend of the town’s historic past and literary present.


🌳 Outdoor Adventures


Located on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Hay is also a fantastic base for exploring the great outdoors.


• Walk the Wye Valley or The Offa’s Dyke Path, both pass through the town and offer riverside paths, beautiful views and wildlife.
• Rent a canoe and float down the River Wye for a peaceful, scenic journey.
• Hike the Black Mountains, just a short drive away, for sweeping views and fresh air.


Whether you're a serious hiker or just enjoy a riverside picnic, there’s no shortage of nature to enjoy.


🛍️ Shopping, Cafés & Local Life


Beyond the books, Hay is full of independent charm:


• Antique shops, vintage stores and craft boutiques offer everything from handmade jewellery to Welsh wool.
• Local market every Thursday in the town square selling fresh produce, artisan foods, and local crafts.
• Cafés and tearooms serve everything from traditional Welsh cakes to gourmet coffee and light lunches.


🛏️ Staying in Hay


From boutique B&Bs to riverside cottages and quirky glamping spots, Hay’s accommodation options are as varied as its bookshelves. Check out our accommodation listings for recommendations.


💡 Final Thoughts


Visiting Hay-on-Wye feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s a place where books line the streets, ideas spark, and time slows to the rhythm of turning pages. Whether you're here for the festivals, the shopping, the landscape or just the quiet joy of browsing a shelf. You’ll leave inspired, relaxed, and probably with a bag full of books.


So, pack a bag and follow your curiosity to the Town of Books.

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