The Old Black Lion Hay-On-Wye Exterior photoThe Old Black Lion Hay-On-Wye Exterior photoThe Old Black Lion Hay-On-Wye Exterior photo
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From161US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select 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
8.7
/10
5.0
4.5
/5

Dining

The Old Black Lion Bar & Restaurant offers a variety of locally sourced dishes prepared by a talented kitchen team. Guests can enjoy their meals in the cozy dining area that seats up to 40, or choose to dine outside in the Marquee, which accommodates well-behaved dogs. The establishment has been recognized with the Good Food Award and holds 2AA Rosettes for culinary excellence.

Accommodation

The hotel features 10 individually styled rooms, including the superior Cromwell Suite and various en suite accommodations. Each room is designed to provide ample space for relaxation, allowing guests to enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of the Welsh borders. The offerings include single, double, and twin en suite rooms, with one single room having a separate private bathroom.

Location

The Old Black Lion is situated in Hay-On-Wye, an international destination known for its collection of over twenty fascinating bookshops. The surrounding area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, horse riding, and canoeing. Guests can explore the local independent shops, cafes, and a highly regarded small cinema.

Entertainment

Regular jazz performances enhance the guest experience at The Old Black Lion, featuring talented musicians such as Simon Spillett and Guy Shotton. The hotel hosts quizzes with themed evenings, allowing guests to enjoy delicious curry while testing their knowledge. This blend of food, fun, and live music contributes to a lively atmosphere.

Gifts and Special Offers

Gift vouchers are available at The Old Black Lion, offering various ways to treat a loved one, from meals to overnight stays. These vouchers are offered in various denominations and can be posted in just a few days. Guests are encouraged to inquire about table reservations during their visit to secure their dining experience.

Highlights

Dining: Award-winning restaurant with locally sourced dishes

Accommodation: 10 individually styled rooms

Location: International destination for bibliophiles

Entertainment: Regular live jazz performances

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
Double Room
2 persons
18 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Twin Room
2 persons
28 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
Superior Double Room
2 persons
20 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • 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.

The Old Black Lion 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 (GLO)124 min  ·  82.5 km
Swansea (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
Wireless 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

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Old Black Lion from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Old Black Lion offers a stay in the heart of Hay-on-Wye, with rooms featuring tea and coffee making facilities. Guests often appreciate the historic ambiance and convenient location, just a short walk from the town center, bookshops and the castle. The hotel provides free parking for residents behind the building. While many find the experience worthwhile, a few guests have mentioned that some annex rooms could benefit from updates.
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Review score
Based on 378 verified reviews
8.6/10
Great
92%
Recommend
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.0/10
Breakfast
7.5/10
Pros
Excellent food
Friendly staff
Great location
Cons
Cold room
Small towels
Blocked shower
Guest reviews
based on 378 reviews
8.6/10
based on 366 reviews
4.5/5
based on 723 reviews
8.7/10
Samuel from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 04, 2026
9.5/10

Excellent Stay in Charming Welsh Tavern

helpful staffdelicious foodcomfortable roomclean bathroom
The staff was consistently friendly and helpful . The food in the pub stood out particularly on my second night, showcasing a different chef's skills. My room was very comfortable and the bathroom was very clean. Breakfast offered delicious options I fully appreciated.
The room could use some updating to maintain a fresh appearance.
Rooms
9/10
The Double Room had comfortable furnishings. The bathroom featured very clean surfaces and modern fixtures. I found the rooms to provide a restful and clean environment.
Facilities
9/10
The pub had a cozy atmosphere which I enjoyed. The hotel provides free parking behind the building. The pub is dog-friendly and I noticed water bowls readily available.
Location
10/10
The hotel's central location made exploring easy. The town's bookshops were easily accessible on foot. The hotel served as a convenient hub for walking to nearby shops.
Service
10/10
I received a warm welcome upon arrival. The staff were very attentive and proactive.
0 Helpful
|
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Peter from United Kingdom
Single
Twin Room
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 24, 2026
5/10

Service inconsistencies mar the stay

beneficial locationunclean bathroomscalding shower
The location proved beneficial for accessing nearby points of interest.
I found several issues that affected my satisfaction. The bathroom cleanliness was subpar. I noticed black sealant around the taps looked unhygienic. to the cleanliness issues, I was unable to adjust the shower temperature. It was either scalding hot or nothing at all. This made showering an ordeal.
0 Helpful
Sebastian from Germany
Single
Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 15, 2026
9/10
amazing breakfastexquisite meal
i stayed in a twin room for three nights. the breakfast was amazing!!! i especially enjoyed the exquisite meal i had two nights in a row.
the water pressure in the bathroom was all over the place.
0 Helpful
oscar from sweden
Single
double room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed:January 03, 2026
9.0/10

a lovely stay

helpful staffcomplimentary toiletriesbreakfast selectionfree parking
The staff were quite helpful. They assisted me with directions. my room included complimentary toiletries, a hairdryer, and tea and coffee making facilities. breakfast included a selection of cereals, pastries, and cooked options. parking was free for residents, located behind the building.
the bathroom sink drained a little slowly.
Location
9/10
The hotel's location provides easy access to local attractions. i found i could walk to the castle and town center within five minutes. This was very convenient. pleasant walks along the river are also nearby.
Service
9/10
the staff was very friendly. i really appreciated their quick responses to questions. the barman was friendly, and i enjoyed interacting with the waiters each day, we loved the conversations.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Leo from Germany
Single
Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:August 28, 2025
7/10
friendly staffsecure bicycle storagegood breakfastsoft bedinconsistent water pressurehot weather
the staff was friendly and helpful. they stored my bicycle securely. the breakfast was good. i also appreciated the great location (it was easy to get around).
i found the bed could have been softer. the water pressure in the bathroom was inconsistent. a fan would have been useful because the room got hot (it was hot weather).
0 Helpful
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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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room