Top Things to do in Hay-on-Wye
The 10 Best Gift & Specialty Shops in Hay-on-Wye, Wales
More than thirty bookstores, many specializing in out of print or hard to locate titles, lure literary lovers to this market town of 2000, known as the Town of Books. Snugly nestled in the County of Powys at the English border, Hay-on-Wye is most popular during the annual Guardian Hay Festival during the last few weeks of May, when 80,000 visitors descend for readings and seminars. Hay-on-Wye, or Y Gelli as it is in Welsh, also has two Norman castles, a plethora of pubs and a pleasant stream.
Restaurants in Hay-on-Wye
1. Eighteen Rabbit
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
An eclectic, ethical boutique selling stylish fair trade gifts, clothes, jewellery and chocolate.
Reviewed By jademh93 - Hay-on-Wye, United Kingdom
My favourite thing this shop has to offer are the beautiful wooden toys and puzzles, I have bought several over the past couple of years along with some fantastic fair trade chocolate (which I would certainly recommend) and some lovely jewellery too. Whenever I pop in Andrew is always smiling and up for a chat.
2. Eirian Studio Glass
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 119 reviews
Glass blowing courses and workshops at Eirian Studio Glassworks and gallery in Hay On Wye. Hand blown glass that includes studio glass,handmade glass lighting,contemporary hand cut tableware and unique glass jewellery are all made and sold on the premises.
Reviewed By MickT668
Well woth going on the 1 day beginners glass blowing course. If someone like me can come away with a paper weight, bauble and vase that I'm proud to say I made, then that just shows you how great Rowena and Paul are as teachers. A very enjoyable day.
3. Philosophie
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
4. The Welsh Girl
5. Otherworldz
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Step over the threshold of Otherworldz to leave the grey and monochrome monotony of daily life! Inside a colourful world awaits, crammed with clothes, accessories, soft furnishings and gifts. Inspired by memories of the old hippy emporiums of a bygone era, Otherworldz encapsulates all the hedonistic magic of a festival in a beautiful, bohemian and bonkers barrel!
6. Satori Designs
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
From humble origins over 25 years ago, Satori is today one of Hay’s most established and much loved shops, offering its own eclectic mix of jewellery and gifts. Satori delights the senses with the sound of its soothing waterfall, the tinkling of chimes, the spiritual aroma of white sage and candles, and its sparkling array of jewellery and crystals.
7. Murder and Mayhem
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 32 reviews
Reviewed By workyK - Bath, United Kingdom
Murder and Mayhem *made* our trip to Hay on Wye. I have an Agatha Christie-mad near- tween, and the smashing shopkeeper was indulgent, welcoming, fun and friendly. Even on day 5! ;) This is the place to go for ALL your mystery and murder fiction (and fact, in fact). There's every sub-genre you can wish for - it's the perfect dark-heaven for those so-inclined. Thank you, M&M!
8. Booth's Bookshop
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
Reviewed By Changnam - Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
A wonderful selection of books on a myriad of subjects. I don't often buy new books these days, but just couldn't help myself and succumbed to a purchase. I almost felt myself falling back in love with the feel of having a new book in my hands. Joy! I spent quite some time browsing the shelves. Love the staircase! I also stayed and had breakfast in the cafe. Surely one of the best book shops out of the many in Hay on Wye. No visit would be complete without a little time spent wandering between the bookshelves. A delight!
9. The Fudge Shop
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Perched overlooking the top corner of Hay’s main car park, The Fudge Shop has been delighting customers with our delicious, hand made fudge for nearly 20 years. With more than 16 different scrumptious fudges to choose from, there’s a flavour for everyone. Traditional sweets, luxury chocolates - there's even a lollipop tree!
Reviewed By 260lucyf - Bournemouth, United Kingdom
On our little holiday we ad a day trip to Hay-on-Wye and after leaving the car park saw this little fudge shop so decided to pop in. Not only do they sell fudge but old sweets! In the end we went for the Baileys, Triple and Salted Caramel which were all amazing, my favourite was the salted caramel! If you’re wanting a little treat I’d definitely stop here, the fudge was great and the staff were really friendly, wish I got a photo of the fudge to share!
10. Castle Book Store
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 67 reviews
Combine a love of reading with history at this unique bookstore that is housed in an entire 12th-century castle.
Reviewed By 923Dan - Swindon, United Kingdom
Walking through the grounds of Hay Castle, we came across the Castle Book Store. An honesty book store with no shop keeper, where people are free to browse the books and purchase them by putting money into a slot. I think it was only £1 per book. We did look, but couldn't find anything to our likening, but still an excellent local charity venture!
