The small Marches town of Hay-on-Wye is the northernmost point of Brecon Beacons National Park and stands on the southern side of the River Wye. In local terms, the town was known as 'The Hay', the name deriving from Norman origin, Hay or Haie, meaning a fenced or hedged enclosure.'Y-Gelli', the Welsh form. means 'Grove'. In Norman times, for administration purposes, it was divided into English Hay and Welsh Hay. The town was English Hay and the south and west area of countryside, the Welsh Hay. In modern times Hay is known throughout the world as 'The Town of Books'. The medieval town walls were erected in 1236 when a grant was received to fortify the town. There is little trace left of the walls, the three gates. or the postern gate for foot passengers. Remains of the ancient wall can be seen when approaching the town on the B4350, Clifford road, occupying the ridge of high ground to the left of Newport Street. Newport, a corruption of Nyporth, meaning 'Water Gate', so called because of the position of the east gate leading down to the river. The walls appear to have carried westward along the high bank of the River Wye then eastwards towards Castle Street and the Western Gate. It is probable that the third gate occupied a site near the Black Lion in Lion Street.
Enough of the history lesson!!
This colourful 17th Century Inn, parts of which date back to the 1300's, is situated close to what was known as the Lion Gate, one of the original entrances to the old walled town of Hay-on-Wye.
The original exposed timber beams exude historical charm and atmosphere and it is reputed that Oliver Cromwell stayed at the Inn whilst the Roundheads beseiged Hay Castle, which was then a loyalist stronghold.
The Hotel All 10 rooms are en suite and there is a no smoking policy in operation in the rooms, you are however free to smoke in the bar area. All bedrooms have direct dial telephones, hairdryers, colour televisions, tea & coffee making facilities. Look out for the famous teddy bears too! I can recommend room 6 for a special occasion, just about the biggest bed I have ever seen in my life!!
TARIFF Bed & Breakfast • Prices quoted are per person per night Single from £42.50 Double / Twin from £40.00
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast (2 nights minimum): from £60.00 per person Saturday only Dinner, Bed and Breakfast: from £65.00 per person Special Winter Offers £10 per head off B&B rates quoted Sun-Thur incl. Or, Stay 2 nights or more Dinner, Bed & Breakfast and get an extra night DB&B free. 1st November 2004- 19th March, 2005 Excluding Bank Holidays
The Food The Black Lion is probably one of the best places to eat in Hay, all of the food is freshly prepared and most of the ingredients are sourced locally. It's wekll worth eating here if you get the chance.
This is a really friendly place with wonderful decor and character, best value in my opionion is the Sunday lunch where you can choose from 1, 2, or 3 courses, though be warned if you have all three you may need to find somewhere to curl up and sleep off your lunch.
More details
Value for Money
Good
Cleanliness
Excellent
Family Friendly
Average
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