The Town of Books, Hay-on-Wye
Things to do in Hay on Wye. The town of Hay-on-Wye is 3miles from Wye Valley Bunkhouse. Situated at the foot of the Black mountains and on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Hay on Wye has become famous as the town of books, and for the annual HAY FESTIVAL.
In the 1960s, a marvellous gent, Richard Booth, bought Hay castle and declared the town an independent state with himself as king. Richard Booth made Hay-on-Wye world famous as ‘the town of books’. Richard was a unique eccentric character who celebrated everyone form all walks of life, ensuring Hay-on-Wye was friendly to all.
Today Hay-on-Wye is the same friendly, lively and vibrant town that welcomes all.
Shopping in Hay-on-Wye
Hay-on-Wye is a town where its 40+ bookshops are the centre of attention, closely followed behind with great places to eat, independent clothing and gift shops, general stores and galleries, florists, Deli’s and antiques and vintage stores, not forgetting the incredible Market held each Thursday by locals suppliers.
Whether its second-hand vinyl or books, or retro homewares, clothes and furniture, there is something for everyone on Hay-on-Wye’s High Street.
Wye Valley Canoes
The bunkhouse is located right next to Wye Valley Canoes, the oldest canoe centre on the River Wye. Offering 1/2 day trips, full day trips and camping expeditions For groups with younger children, or more novice paddlers then take one of their guided tours. You can leave your front doorstep and paddle into Hay-on-Wye, the famous town of books for a spot of lunch.The River Wye
The River Wye (Afon Gwy) stretches 134 miles from its source on Plynlimonin in mid Wales to the Severn estuary. For much of its length the river forms part of the border between England and Wales. The Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is plenty of fun to be had on the River Wye including canoeing, which is something we are very passionate about.
Hay Festival, Festivals & Events
What’s on Hay on Wye
The famous HAY FESTIVAL held over 12 days, more than 200 acclaimed writers, global policy makers, historians, poets, pioneers and innovators inspire, examine and entertain in events for all ages. ‘HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN’ is the world’s largest Music and Philosophy Festival.
You are sure to find things to do in Hay on Wye to suit the whole family, whatever the weather. Attend family-friendly annual agricultural shows like THE ROYAL WELSH SHOW and THE BRECON COUNTY SHOW. Take a trip down memory lane at the VINTAGE STEAM RALLY nostalgic vintage items for the older generation and entertainment for the children.
RICHARD BOOTHS CINEMA shows current film releases and screens live productions from the National Theater and Ballet. THE GLOBE AT HAY is an independent arts center with a programme you of films, live music, talks & debates, workshops, art exhibitions, courses and schools’ opportunities.
The Great outdoors
When it comes to outdoor adventures you’re spoilt from the very doorstep of Wye Valley Bunkhouse. The stunning natural backdrops of Herefordshire and the Brecon Beacons National Park are not fenced off preserves, but living, working landscapes which are perfect for anyone who has a passion for exploring the outdoors.
The bunkhouse is also an excellent holiday base for serious walking with two national trails, the OFFA’S DYKE PATH and the WYE VALLEY WALK which is walking distance from the front door, and the protected countryside of the BRECON BEACONS NATIONAL PARK on it’s doorstep. If you’re not confident walking without a guide, but are keen to explore, Laura from GUIDED TOURS OF WALES offers guided walking tours in the area.
The local surroundings offer masses of paths and trails for walkers, runners, cyclists, mountain bikers, horse riders and wildlife-watchers. There is a brilliant range of organised activities on offer. Book cycle hire with DROVERS CYCLES, Horse Riding at TREGOYD or FREE-REIN, or Indoor Climbing at LLANGORSE MULTIACTIVITY CENTRE.
Fabulous Food and drink
From excellent gourmet restaurants, boutique cafes to cosy pubs serving local Welsh lamb for Sunday lunch, Hay on Wye and the surrounding area have plenty of fine eating places to tempt you. Gorgeous cafés and tea shops are enough to make you sigh with happiness. And you’ll find some wonderful goodies for family picnics and gifts at the delis, food festivals and farmers’ markets. For those wishing to make the most of the bunkhouse and wishing to stay in, why not book our recommended caters to bring you a precooked feast.