Old Black Lion Inn
Lion Street, town centre · Inn
View on Google MapsPhoto: The Old Black Lion
A Grade II listed 17th-century inn on Lion Street where Cromwell's forces are said to have stayed, with an AA Rosette restaurant and traditional en-suite rooms.
Photos
Photos via Google
About Old Black Lion Inn
The Old Black Lion Inn stands on Lion Street in the heart of Hay-on-Wye, a Grade II listed building dating to the 17th century with a history that, according to local tradition, includes a stay by Oliver Cromwell's forces during the siege of Hay Castle in 1645. Its age shows in low beams, thick walls and a genuinely historic atmosphere that has made it a long-standing favourite among visitors to the town.
Bedrooms are traditional in style, carpeted and en suite, fitted into a building whose age means rooms vary in shape and size rather than following a uniform hotel template. The inn's restaurant holds an AA Rosette and has been recognised in national pub awards, including a place among the best pubs in Powys and Wales, with a menu built around seasonal and local ingredients served in a series of characterful dining rooms.
Personally run by its proprietors, the Old Black Lion combines the informality of a village pub with a genuine commitment to food and hospitality, and its position on Lion Street puts every bookshop and attraction in the town centre within a short walk. It suits visitors who want a characterful, historic base right in the middle of things.
What guests say
This highly reputed pub in Hay did not disappoint, it is exactly how you would imagine the perfect country pub to be. Old wooden beams, nooks and crannies an abundance of oak furniture and floral carpets and a friendly jovial landlord. We were there during the Hay festival and they were overwellmed with customer. But they were very accommodating and kept us informed about the long service time so we chilled in the outdoors seating area with drinks and had a late but satisfying dinner. Its a bit shabby outside and needs a bit of work but we enjoyed our visit nevertheless.
2 months ago · via Google
Such an old pub. Fine cuisine for such an old pub. A nice stroll from the centre of Hay and well worth it. Lovely food. Impromptu early supper for 6. James kindly squeezed us in during Hay Festival week, even though it said fully booked online. We had Lamb Tagine, paella and hake. Would recommend them all. Had such a gormet experience, I forgot to take pictures of food :)
2 months ago · via Google
We stopped for a meal and it was 5 star. Two of us had the small haddock and chips which was melt in your mouth, just the right size for lunch. The other had the club sandwich and chips and her ambition exceeded her capability and a doggy bag was required. The owners were engaging and we enjoyed a long chat. A worthwhile experience across the board. It also had on site parking which we did not realise.
3 months ago · via Google
We had a fantastic stay at the Old Black Lion. A large group of us were cycling along the border of Wales over three days. James and his team went out of their way to accommodate us. Excellent communication throughout. Extra beds made up for those of us sharing rooms. A place for our whole group (not all of us were staying at the Old Black Lion!) to keep our bikes overnight. An extra early start for our breakfast on Sunday. Dinner on Saturday night was great. Staff were very friendly and accommodating - an exceptional level of service throughout our stay. Thank you!
3 months ago · via Google
Diners like this pub's delicious and hearty food, with many highlighting the exceptional Sunday roast, fish and chips, and plant-based burger options. They also mention the friendly, attentive staff and the welcoming, characterful atmosphere. Guests appreciate the comfortable, clean rooms and the convenient on-site parking.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- 26 Lion Street, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford, HR3 5AD Get directions
- Property type
- Inn
- Location
- Lion Street, town centre
- Star rating
- 3 star
- Guest score
- 8.9 / 10 (900 reviews)
- Prices from
- £110 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Hay-on-Wye