The Old Black Lion - Hay-On-Wye
52.074246, -3.122622Overview
Historic 17th-century inn with 2 AA Rosette restaurant and live jazz in Hay-on-Wye
Award-Winning Dining at The Old Black Lion
The Old Black Lion Hay-On-Wye holds 2 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence and earned the Good Food Award Gold Seal for 2024. The restaurant uses exclusively local ingredients, with dishes like Hereford steaks, Black Mountain Smoked Salmon, and South Indian style coconut curry. Diners can book private dining in the atmospheric Lions Den or enjoy cosy outdoor meals in the heated Marquee.
Live Music & Regular Events
The black lion hay hosts live jazz performances every Friday night, with musicians playing at a volume that allows conversation. Wednesday quiz nights draw locals and guests alike, featuring a South Indian style coconut curry served during the break. Butty Bach ale is a popular local beer on tap, and the bar also serves local gins and wines.
Historic Rooms Full of Character
The old black lion hay-on-wye offers rooms in a 17th-century building with original low beams, sloping floors, and oak doors. The standout Cromwell Suite is a duplex with a mezzanine seating area and countryside views, while other rooms feature modern ensuite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Guests should note the low doorways and steep stairs, with prominent 'Mind your Head' signs throughout.
Prime Location for Exploring Hay-on-Wye & Beyond
The old black lion sits just 2 minutes from Hay Castle and the town's famous bookshops, with private parking included. The hotel is also a gateway to the Brecon Beacons National Park for hiking and cycling, and close to independent cinemas. Guests can leave their car in the free car park and walk everywhere in the centre of Hay.
Pet-Friendly Stay with Extra Services
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at the black lion hay on wye, and the staff can accommodate dog-friendly tables in the bar. The hotel offers special diet menus and packed lunches for guests exploring the area. A freshly cooked breakfast using locally sourced produce is available each morning for £10 per person.
- Location: 2-minute walk to Hay Castle and town center bookshops
- Dining: 2 AA Rosette restaurant with Good Food Award Gold Seal 2024
- Entertainment: Live jazz every Friday and weekly quiz nights
- Rooms: Cromwell Suite with mezzanine seating and 17th-century character
- Pet Policy: Well-behaved dogs welcome in designated areas
- Parking: Free on-site parking for all guests
- Breakfast: Freshly cooked full English or Welsh breakfast for £10 per person
Rooms and availability
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Room size:
12 m²
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Bed options:1 Single bed
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Shower
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Heating
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Room size:
20 m²
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Bed options:1 Double bed
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Shower
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Heating
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Room size:
18 m²
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Bed options:1 Double bed
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Shower
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Heating
Facilities
Main facilities
Bar/ Lounge area
Restaurant
Welcome drink
Flat-screen TV
Electric kettle
Children's menu
Cots
Services
- Housekeeping
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Children
- Cots
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
Room features
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Essential information about The Old Black Lion
| 💵 Lowest room price | 119 £ |
| 📏 Distance to centre | 300 m |
| ✈️ Distance to airport | 82.5 km |
| 🧳 Nearest airport | Gloucestershire, GLO |
Location
- City landmarks
- Nearby
- Restaurants
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