The perfect vacation Idea for Booklovers...

5 Reasons to Visit Hay-On-Wye

If you love books, like me, this will be heaven for you. I nearly bought a whole bookshop load of books myself. Well, I would if I could…

A picture-pretty little village in England combined with the love of books is just priceless. You get both in the village of Hay-on-Wye. This pretty little village has become world-famous for its bookshops, as it has so many of them. It is also known as “the world’s first book town” (established in 1962) or “the town of books”.

This little village is the perfect place to visit over a weekend, (but also during the week)… There are second–hand bookshops everywhere; open air (the honesty bookshop), hidden gems, combined with bric-a-brac, and antiques, you name it…

Get ready to go back home with a much heavier bag than the one you came with. 🙂

Hay-on-Wye is a charming little town on the border of Wales and England, best known as the “town of books.” This reputation comes from its numerous bookstores—over 20 in a town with a population of around 1,600 people!

Is Hay-on-Wye Worth a visit?

Yes, most definitely, and here’s why you might just love to visit:

1. Bookshops Galore:

The town is home to a variety of bookshops, ranging from second-hand and rare books to modern titles. One of the most famous is Richard Booth’s Bookshop.

Richard Booth’s bookshop is a real treat as this shop also houses a café and cinema as well as new, 2^nd hand, and vintage books. Here you can spend a few happy hours. You can find more info on their Facebook Page.

Exploring each bookstore in Hay-on-Wye is a lot of fun, with plenty of unique finds around every corner. You might stumble upon the eerie “bat cave” or you might want to hunt for vampire novels, or discover the quirky ‘crime bookshop’ dedicated to thrilling mysteries. Whether you’re in the mood for something spooky, searching for a gripping detective story, or just looking to find that classic title you’ve been after, there’s something for every kind of book lover.

2. The Festival of Literature & Arts

Every year in late May and early June, Hay-on-Wye hosts the Hay Festival of Literature & Arts, attracting writers, thinkers, and artists from all over the world. It’s a great time to visit if you’re interested in engaging discussions, workshops, and performances.

If you’ve missed it this year, book now for next year. Dates for the Hay Festival Hay-on-Wye, is from 22 May to 01 June 2025.

The Hay Festival is an event not to be missed. (Get early bird tickets.)

3. A pretty little market

The weekly Hay Market Day is a vibrant local market that is held in the center of Hay-on-Wye every Thursday, from 8 am to mid-afternoon. The locals refer to the market day as: “the best day in Hay!” and seeing that it has been operational for over 700 years, you should definitely go and see what it’s all about.

4. Picturesque Scenery

The town is set against the stunning backdrop of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Whether you enjoy walking, hiking, or just relaxing by the River Wye, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

5. Charming Cafés and Pubs

After a day of browsing books and exploring the town, you can relax in one of the many quaint cafés or traditional pubs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for a cup of tea or a lively place for a pint, Hay-on-Wye has you covered.

Go on a canoe ride on the Wye River. (hire@canoehire.co.uk)
Take a walk along the Wye River and maybe find a peaceful spot outdoors to enjoy your book.
At the time of this article, they were busy with repairs on Hay-Castle, but with the Hay Castle Trust looking after this well-preserved part of history, you can still enjoy its beauty.

The clocktower in Hay-on-Wye was built in 1881, and it is of the same design as the clock tower in Knighton, another border town which is about 20 miles north of Hay.

Map of Hay-on-Wye

Travel Tip(s)

For you!

Gift Ideas . . .

Or gift it!

The “Eat Like a Local” audiobook series gives tips and advice on eating local food in different places worldwide. It helps you explore authentic cuisines when you travel.

The closest Train station, approaching from England, to Hay-on-Wye is in the city of Hereford, approximately 21 miles east of Hay-on-Wye. You can enjoy a scenic bus ride there, as a regular Bus Service runs from Hereford Rail Station.

How long should you stay?

Although this is an easy weekend visit, we can also recommend spending a week here. Especially if you love sitting somewhere snug reading a book, browsing at leisure, taking your time enjoying the books and the surroundings.

After all, there is nothing like the smell of books, the feeling of the pages beneath your fingers, and the quiet of a cozy corner to sit and read…

Number 22, Castle Street

WHY WE RECOMMEND: If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay during your visit, look no further! This charming property is in a fantastic location, right in the heart of town, making it an ideal base for exploring local attractions. The house is exceptionally clean, cozy, and well-equipped, with every amenity you might need, including a thoughtful welcome pack. (sleeps 4)

Book your stay…

Drovers Rest

At Drovers Rest, guests can enjoy the on-site family-friendly restaurant, which serves African cuisine.

Book your stay now…

WHY WE RECOMMEND: If you’re seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of luxury and nature, this glamping site is a perfect choice! Guests have fallen in love with the stunning location, where cozy safari tents come equipped with comfortable beds, electric blankets, and wood burners, ensuring a warm and snug stay. The addition of private bathrooms adds a layer of comfort and convenience.

Whether you’re enjoying the breathtaking views, the company of friendly alpacas, or simply unwinding in a peaceful rural setting, this glamping site offers everything you need for a memorable getaway. With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that guests are eager to return!

Go to the Hay-on-Wey Travel Guide (20 Travel Tips and things you need to know before you go): Read more…

In conclusion, I loved this little town and I hope they restore and keep the beauty of the town up and running for many years, as it is a paradise to all our book-loving travelers. Here’s to many fabulous years still to come.

By, Jo-Anne Naude

Your Go-To Guide for Seamless Travel

Jo-Anne believes that a well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler. With a focus on providing practical, detailed guides, Jo-Anne’s articles are packed with all the essential information you need before embarking on your next adventure, making your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-haul journey, her insights will help you make the most of every trip.