In short: Hay Castle is a castle in Hay-on-Wye, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 787 Google reviews.
Details checked · source: Google Places
Hay Castle, listed under Castles & Palaces, near Hay-on-Wye.
About Hay Castle
Hay Castle overlooks the town of Hay-on-Wye from a commanding position above the River Wye. The ruins and restored sections contain history displays. Visitors can climb to the top for views across the surrounding landscape.
The castle has a cafe serving food including toasties and cakes, and a gift shop. Staff are reported as knowledgeable and welcoming. The site is suitable for children.
What's nearby
- Hay-on-Wye Thursday Market Day next door
- The Haymakers Gallery next door
- Shepherds Parlour next door
- Hay On Wye Booksellers next door
- R.M.Jones Pharmacy next door
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
What visitors say
Worth the entry to be able to go to the viewing platform and take a look over Hay. There is some information about the castle however we came away feeling we didn't actually know much about it past the 1200s - so not much really! While it clearly benefits from recent modernisation, the addition of a lift makes it very accessible for a castle, the space feels so modern you wouldn't actually know you were in such a historic building. I would have liked to have been able to read more on the history of the castle and town between the 1200s and Richard Booth in the 1960s.
· via Google
Very nice, I would not call it a castle rather a house. A very modern Building from the inside, they have spent lot of money on which it has lost its appeal as a castle. It costs £7 to enter which the ticket last for one year from the date of buying it.
· via Google
Nice castle. Tours and information about it's restoration are available! Has a lovely gift shop and cafe! We visited during the festival so had limited time to look around but they did have food tents available for the event
· via Google
If you into Hay on Wye from the correct angle the castle appears as if by magic. It’s beautiful even if you don’t. The bookshop always has new and interesting finds when we visit. The only down side is that our food allergies prevent us from enjoying the cafe inside, but it smells delicious. There’s always people moving through the castle, and the staff are always friendly. The tour is fascinating if you like local history and if you sit in the main area you can hear the locals talking it from when they were children which just adds to the atmosphere. If you have arthritis like me it can be a bit difficult to walk around, it is an old castle, but worth the effort if you can spare a good movement day. The area alone is breathtaking - we’ve been in June and November.
· via Google
Visitors say this castle offers interesting history displays, stunning views from the top, and a well-stocked gift shop. They also highlight the cafe's delicious, high-quality food, including sticky toffee cake and Brie, bacon, and cranberry toasties. Guests mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the warm, relaxed atmosphere.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Category
- Castles & Palaces
- Guest rating
- 4.5 / 5 (787 reviews)
- Prices from
- £8
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Hay-on-Wye
Quick answers
What are the opening hours of Hay Castle?
Hay Castle is open Mon–Sun 10am–4pm (from its Google listing; hours can change on bank holidays, so check before you go).
Is Hay Castle any good?
Hay Castle is rated 4.5 out of 5 from 787 Google reviews.
Is Hay Castle good for children?
Yes, Hay Castle is listed as good for children.
How do I contact Hay Castle?
Call Hay Castle on +44 1497 820079.