The neighbourhood
Everything that the small, beautiful market town of Hay-on-Wye, internationally known as the Town of Books, has to offer is on the doorstep and it only takes about 20 minutes to walk the town circuit. It’s a charming olde-world town that’s renowned for a legacy that is celebrated at the Hay Festival of literature every year in May, June and November.
Booth’s Bookshop is almost legendary and has a cinema with comfortable chairs where you can watch a variety of films. There are many more lovely shops, including a good butcher, baker and a deli, as well as independent cafes, pubs and restaurants, all just minutes away on foot. The Thursday morning market offers lots more local produce, along with stalls selling eclectic wares from antiques to handmade jewellery.
Hay-on-Wye is in the Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is a fantastic place for enjoying the great outdoors and adventures. Enjoy walks and cycling in the countryside (bikes can be hired in town), kayaking on the River Wye and horse-riding in the Black Mountains nearby.
If you feel like a drive, Nancy and Bill’s lavender farm is open to the public. It’s called FARMERS’ Welsh Lavender and is about 35 minutes away. The lavender season is from July to August, but whatever time of year you visit you’ll enjoy spectacular views in all directions. You will also be welcome to swim in their pond and have the opportunity to buy gorgeous balms and creams. There’s also the opportunity for wild swimming in The Warren Hay-on-Wye where the river meanders around a scenic meadow.
Getting around
While not essential, a car can be useful for exploring the wider area. Free parking is available at a car park which is a 5-minute walk from the cottage.
The nearest train stations are Hereford, 21 miles east and Builth Wells, 19 miles.