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The Hay Festival in Wales is the leading book festival in the UK. Held in the beautiful Welsh town of Hay-on-Wye towards the end of May, the 2025 Hay on Wye Festival will feature more than 600 writers and thinkers in conversations and debates.
What Is the Hay Festival?
If you’re a book lover looking for a unique and inspiring event, the Hay Festival is a must-visit destination. Known as the world’s largest second-hand book fair, this annual festival attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.
Located in the charming town of Hay on Wye, Wales, the festival is a celebration of literature, culture, and more. Founded in 1988 by Richard Booth, a local bookseller, the festival has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike. Since then it has travelled to some 30 locations from Colombia to Peru, the US, Mexico and Spain. The festivals reach millions of people each year both through in person events, online and via its social media channels.
During the Hay on Wye Book festival, the town transforms into a lively hub of literary activity, with events taking place across multiple venues. You can attend talks, workshops, book signings, and more, all hosted by renowned authors, poets, and thinkers. And if you’re a foodie, you won’t be disappointed – the festival also features a fantastic selection of food stalls and vendors, offering everything from local Welsh delicacies to international cuisine.
So, whether you’re a seasoned book collector or simply looking for a fun and engaging cultural experience, the Hay on Wye Book Festival is definitely worth a visit. Let’s dive into the details and find out what makes this festival so special.
Hay Festival Programme
The 2025 Hay festival program can be found here. This year will see Ed Davey, Clive Anderson, Paloma Faith, Alexander McCall Smith, James Corden appearing.
The Hay on Wye Book Festival Medals
Winners of the 2025 Hay Festival Medals will be announced on stage. Previous winners include John le Carré, Margaret Atwood, Ali Smith, Ahdaf Soueif and George Monbiot.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Hay on Wye Book Festival Experience
To ensure you have the best possible time at the Hay on Wye Book Festival, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Plan Ahead: With so many events and activities taking place, it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance. Check the festival programme online and choose the events you’re most interested in attending. Make sure to book tickets early to avoid disappointment.
- Dress Comfortably: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Don’t forget to bring a backpack or tote bag to carry your books and any other purchases.
- Explore Beyond the Festival: While the festival itself is fantastic, don’t forget to explore the charming town of Hay on Wye and its surrounding areas. Take a walk along the River Wye, visit a local pub or café, or head out for a hike in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.
- Be Open-Minded: The festival is a great opportunity to discover new authors, genres and perspectives. Keep an open mind and attend events that challenge and inspire you.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your Hay on Wye Book Festival experience and create lasting memories.
Where to Stay During the Hay on Wye Book Festival
Hay on Wye is a small town, but it has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few suggestions:
- B&Bs and Guesthouses: There are several charming bed and breakfasts and guesthouses in Hay on Wye that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. Some popular options include The Pavement Palace and The Old Black Lion.
- Hotels: If you prefer a bit more luxury, there are a few hotels in the area, including The Swan at Hay and The Globe at Hay.
- Self-Catering Accommodation: If you prefer to have your own space, there are several self-catering options in Hay on Wye, such as holiday cottages and apartments.
Accommodation Hay Festival
Hay Festival accommodation tends to fill up quickly, you can find the Hay festival accommodation recommendations here. Or alternatively use the official accommodation service and booking agent for the festival.
Camping Hay on Wye Festival
A range of Hay on Wye festival camping options from a Fred’s Yurts to Tangerine Fields and Hay Glamping, can be booked here.
Hay on Wye Festival Parking
There is a car park at Hay close to the festival, costing £8 per day for Macmillan. Alternatively, the park & ride car park costs £5 and is located at Clyro Court (Baskerville Hall Hotel) HR3 5LE.
Hay on Wye Festival Tickets
An online Hay Festival Pass costs £60 and can be purchased here. There are also a number of free events for the 2025 Hay on Wye Festival.
Other Hay Festivals
Hay organises other festivals in Jericho, Medellin and Cartagena in Colombia in January; Querétaro in Mexico and Segovia Spain in September, as well as Arequipa, Peru in November. There is also a Hay winter festival from 27 to 30 November.
Hay Festival Dates
The Hay on Wye Book Festival is from Thursday 22 May to Sunday 1 June, 2025.
Where Is the Hay Festival?
The Hay on Wye Festival is held on Dairy Meadows (HR3 5PJ), which is just a ten-minute walk from Hay-on-Wye.
Things To Do in the Area
One of the great aspects of attending the festival is its wonderful location. The Wye Valley is a lovely part of the country, and the nearby Brecon Beacons are spectacular. For further inspiration follow Mark Bibby Jackson as he walks along the Herefordshire trail to Ross-on-Wye just across the border in England. Alternatively yo can discover the Beacons and continue down towards the Pembrokeshire coastline.
What is Hay Festival?
For more information on the leading UK literature festival, click here.
Main image: Day 4 at Hay Festival 2022, credit Adam Tatton Reid. All images kindly supplied by the organisers.
