24 Hours in Hay-on-Wye: A Book Lover’s Dream in Wales

If you’re into books, Hay-on-Wye is a must-visit. Known as the “Town of Books,” this charming little spot in Wales is packed with bookstores, cozy pubs, and quirky corners. We spent 24 hours exploring its highlights, and honestly, it’s every bookworm’s dream.

Morning: Richard Booth’s Bookshop

We kicked things off at Richard Booth’s Bookshop, the kind of bookstore you could lose yourself in for hours. Named after the guy who basically turned Hay-on-Wye into book heaven, it’s full of cozy nooks, great books, and even has a café. We grabbed a coffee, browsed for a while, and came away with a few finds. I could’ve easily spent the whole day there, but there was more to see!

Late Morning: Addyman Books

Next up was Addyman Books, a total gem with rooms stacked to the ceiling with books. Every turn in this shop felt like an adventure, and each room had its own quirky vibe – there were even little handwritten notes around with book recommendations. From rare old books to more recent reads, it’s got something for everyone. We spent ages wandering through the shelves and soaking up all the bookish charm.

Afternoon: Lunch at The Old Black Lion

After a morning of bookstore hopping, we were ready for some food, so we stopped by The Old Black Lion. It’s a classic Welsh pub, perfect for relaxing with a hearty lunch. The food was exactly what we needed – cozy and filling. Plus, the vibe here made us feel like locals for a bit, tucked into a warm, friendly spot before getting back to exploring.

Afternoon Stroll: Hay Castle

After lunch, we wandered over to Hay Castle. It’s an old castle, but there are modern touches with exhibits, events, and amazing views of the town and countryside. Walking around, it’s easy to imagine all the history the place has seen, and it added a nice mix to our book-filled day.

Wrapping Up

Spending a day in Hay-on-Wye felt like stepping into a bookish wonderland. Between the bookstores, the pub, and the castle, it’s a great spot to unplug, wander, and dive into another world. If you’re ever in Wales and love books, definitely make time for Hay-on-Wye – it’s a literary escape you won’t forget.