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From161US$ /night
Check-in
14Jan2026Select date
Check-out
15Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Lion Street, Hay-On-Wye, United Kingdom
-
Near the Hay-on-Wye Town Centre
Great
8.6
/10
4.7
/5

Dining

The Old Black Lion boasts an award-winning restaurant recognized for culinary excellence with two AA Rosettes. The restaurant, seating up to 40 guests, serves dishes prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, crafted daily by the skilled kitchen team led by Head Chef Mark Turton. Guests can also enjoy outdoor dining in the Marquee, where well-behaved dogs are welcome.

Accommodation

The hotel offers ten individually styled rooms, including a superior en suite double room known as The Cromwell Suite. Each room is designed to provide ample space for relaxation, featuring en suite facilities for guest convenience. Options include five double en suite rooms, two twin en suite rooms, and a single room with a separate private bathroom.

Location

Situated in Hay-On-Wye, The Old Black Lion serves as a gateway to explore the rich literary heritage of the town. Guests can visit over twenty fascinating bookshops, including independent boutiques and cafes. The hotel is also an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities for walkers, cyclists, horseback riders, and canoeers readily accessible.

Entertainment

The hotel hosts regular quiz nights where guests can showcase their knowledge while enjoying a delicious curry served at their tables. Local jazz musicians frequently perform, offering a lively atmosphere alongside quality entertainment for visitors. These events create opportunities for guests to socialize and have a fun, relaxed experience.

Recognition

The Old Black Lion has received multiple accolades, including the National Pub & Bar Award for Best Pub & Bar in Powys. This recognition highlights the hotel's commitment to high-quality food, service, and customer satisfaction. Additionally, the establishment prides itself on sourcing local produce and supporting community businesses.

Highlights

Dining: Award-winning restaurant with two AA Rosettes

Entertainment: Regular quiz nights and local jazz performances

Location: Gateway to over twenty independent bookshops

Accommodation: Ten uniquely styled rooms, including The Cromwell Suite

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the Hay-on-Wye Bookshops for literary treasures.
  • Visit the Hay Castle to explore its fascinating history.
  • Don't miss the local produce at Hay Market on Thursdays.
  • Taste a slice of the famous Welsh cake at The Blue Boar.
  • Join a storytelling session at The Storytelling Festival in May.
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Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
Single Room
2 persons
12 m² 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Double Room
2 persons
20 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room
2 persons
18 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Twin Room
2 persons
28 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

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
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Dining Onsite

The Old Black Lion offers a delightful range of dining experiences, with seasonal menus crafted by Head Chef Mark Turton using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Suitable for families, couples, and those with specific dietary needs, this inviting venue combines traditional charm with hearty meals that cater to all tastes.

The Old Black Lion Restaurant

Seasonal British fare with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
Warm, family-friendly atmosphere with traditional decor, ideal for both relaxed dining and romantic evenings
Key Offerings
Award-winning lunch and dinner menu featuring dishes prepared from scratch, alongside a carefully selected wine list and refreshing cask ales from local breweries like Wye Valley and Evans Evans.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended; please use the website or phone to book a table.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; varies by day. Lunch available Monday to Friday 12:00 - 14:00 and Saturday 12:00 - 14:30; dinner available daily 18:30 - 21:00.

The Old Black Lion Bar/Lounge

Casual dining and drink options
Ambiance
Cozy lounge space perfect for unwinding with a drink or enjoying a light meal
Key Offerings
A variety of cask ales, refreshing beverages, and small bites to accompany time spent relaxing or socializing.
Reservation
Reservations are not needed for the bar/lounge.
Bar/lounge hours align with restaurant hours; specific timings may vary.

Location

Lion Street, Hay-On-Wye, United Kingdom
Map view
Lion Street, Hay-On-Wye, United Kingdom
Nearby
Castle
Hay Castle
470 m
Hay-on-WyeWales
Castle Book Store
600 m
Gallery
The Lion Street Gallery
190 m
The Drill Hall 25 Lion Street The Drill Hall
Hay, Ross on Wye
30 m
41 Lion St
Hay Deli
210 m
The Old Electric Shop
300 m
2 St. Johns Place
The Haymakers Gallery
320 m
Store
Bain & Murrin
200 m
Restaurants
Hay Conservative Club
100 m
35 Lion Street
Tomatitos Tapas Bar
190 m
38 Lion Street
The Hay Tap
140 m
The Bull Ring
Chapters Restaurant
160 m
Lion Street
Oscars Bistro
180 m
Hightown Hay on Wye
Eve's
220 m
4/5 High Town
The Granary
320 m
20-21 Broad Street Herefordshire
Three Tuns
320 m
4 Broad Street
Rose and Crown
290 m
Broad Street
The Globe At Hay Kitchen
300 m
Newport Street
Explore Hay-On-Wye
Local Delights near The Old Black Lion
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hay Castle
Hay Castle
6 minutes' walk
Historic castle offering exhibitions and stunning views. Ideal for history buffs and photography enthusiasts.
Brook Street Pottery & Gallery
Brook Street Pottery & Gallery
9 minutes' walk
A charming pottery gallery featuring local artists. Unique ceramics and workshops available.
Clifford Castle
Clifford Castle
5 minutes' drive
Ruins of a medieval castle with scenic landscapes. Perfect for picnics and exploring history.
Paddles and Pedals Canoe Hire
Paddles and Pedals Canoe Hire
15 minutes' walk
Canoeing and cycling along the River Wye. Rentals available for thrill-seekers and leisurely paddlers.
The Warren
16 minutes' walk
Lush riverside park with walking paths and picnic areas. A perfect spot for relaxation and family time.
Oscars Bistro
Oscars Bistro
3 minutes' walk
Casual bistro with a varied menu. Known for its fresh ingredients and welcoming atmosphere.
Tomatitos Tapas Bar
Tomatitos Tapas Bar
3 minutes' walk
Traditional Spanish tapas in a cozy setting. Great for sharing plates with friends or loved ones.
The Hay Tap
The Hay Tap
2 minutes' walk
Lively bar with craft beers and live music. A great spot for socializing and enjoying local tunes.
Hay Conservative Club
Hay Conservative Club
2 minutes' walk
Local club hosting quiz nights and events. Family-friendly atmosphere with a range of entertainment choices.
Getting around the city
City Centre
Hay-On-Wye4 min  ·  300 m
Airports
Gloucestershire Airport (GLO)124 min  ·  82.5 km
Swansea Airport (SWS)157 min  ·  104.6 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:30-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
FAQs
About The Old Black Lion
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Old Black Lion?
Check-in is at 14:30 and check-out is by 10:30.
How far is The Old Black Lion from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 85 km from Gloucestershire Airport.
What dining options are available at The Old Black Lion?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant that offers an award-winning lunch and dinner menu.
Are there any restaurants within walking distance of The Old Black Lion?
Nearby restaurants include Richard Booth's Bookshop Cafe, Tomatitos Tapas Bar, and Origin Pizza, all within 0.5 km.
What amenities are included in the rooms at The Old Black Lion?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and an en suite bathroom.
Is parking available at The Old Black Lion?
Free on-site parking is available for guests.
What unique features does The Old Black Lion offer?
The hotel features live jazz performances every Friday night and a restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients.
Is there a bar or lounge area at The Old Black Lion?
The hotel has a bar/lounge area where guests can enjoy refreshments.
What nearby attractions can guests visit when staying at The Old Black Lion?
Guests can visit Hay Castle and the scenic Brecon Beacons National Park, both within 1 km.
What are the options for breakfast at The Old Black Lion?
A freshly cooked breakfast is available using locally sourced produce for £10 per person.

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