Set against the backdrop of the book-loving town of Hay-on-Wye, Hay Festival is one of the world’s leading celebrations of literature, arts and ideas.

Each year, for ten days in late May and early June, writers, thinkers, artists and performers from around the globe gather in this small market town on the edge of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. Together, they create a vibrant programme of events that brings books to life and sparks conversations that stretch across science, art, politics, history and beyond.

Founded in 1987 around a kitchen table in Hay-on-Wye, the festival has grown into a truly international phenomenon, with editions now hosted across Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East. Yet its heart remains here in the Welsh Borders, where ideas are explored, challenged and celebrated in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.

Alongside its packed programme of talks and readings, the festival also offers a range of workshops, performances, family-friendly activities, and pop-up cafes and bookshops, making it a lively and inspiring day out for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re seeking conversations with your favourite authors, new perspectives on the world, or simply the joy of being surrounded by books and creativity, Hay Festival promises an unforgettable experience.

Experience the Royal Welsh Show

The Royal Welsh Show is one of Wales’ most iconic events, celebrating the best of farming, rural life, and Welsh culture. Held annually in Llanelwedd, the show attracts visitors from across the UK and beyond, offering something for everyone. Explore a packed programme of livestock competitions, thrilling Main Ring displays, and demonstrations of traditional rural crafts.

Wander through bustling trade stands showcasing local produce, artisan crafts, and the latest agricultural innovations. Food lovers can enjoy a taste of Wales with delicious offerings from the food hall, while families will love the interactive activities, live entertainment, and children’s attractions. The show is also a fantastic opportunity to meet the farmers, producers, and craftspeople who are the heart of rural Wales.

With it’s vibrant atmosphere and rich heritage, the Royal Welsh Show is the perfect way to experience the spirit of the countryside. Whether you’re a farming enthusiast, a lover of the outdoors, or simply looking for a great day out, this iconic event offers a unique glimpse into rural Welsh life.
Plan your visit and discover why the Royal Welsh Show is a highlight of the summer season!

Discover Brecon with Visit Brecon Tourist Information Centre

Discover the delights of Brecon – your journey starts here.

Nestled in the heart of this charming market town, we are your gateway to uncovering the best of this vibrant area. Operated by Brecon Town Council, our information office is here to assist both holidaymakers and locals alike. Whether you’re seeking advice on walking routes, attractions, activities, directions, public transport or upcoming events, our friendly staff and knowledgeable volunteers are always ready to help, with handy maps and guides to help you make the most of your adventure.

Conveniently located at 11a Lion Yard, just off the main town centre car park, Visit Brecon offers more than just information. Embark on a guided walk to explore the historic streets of Brecon or discover the beauty of its iconic Cathedral – the perfect way to experience the rich history and culture of this delightful town.

Satisfied customers from all over the world have filled our visitors’ book with hundreds of comments – we look forward to you joining them. You can also visit our website for further information, and find out what’s on by using our website Events Calendar.

Don’t forget to check out our Facebook and Instagram too.

We can’t wait to welcome you here at Visit Brecon!

Established in 1933 by Glynwen, the grandmother of the current owners, the Honey Café in Bronllys has been a cherished family-run establishment for over 85 years.

Originally operating in a former malt house and brewery, the café has a rich history, including its time as the “Honey Cavern” live music nightclub in the 1960s.

Situated at the heart of the Black Mountains, overlooking the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park and just seven miles from Hay-on-Wye, the café offers a picturesque setting for visitors.

The Honey Café is renowned for its diverse menu, which seamlessly blends traditional British fare with Tex-Mex influences—a concept introduced in 1994 that has since become a hallmark of the establishment.

Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, including breakfasts, gourmet burgers, and snacks and wraps, with options available for plant-based diets and those avoiding gluten. Homemade cakes and desserts, such as fruit pies, cheesecakes, and traditional Welsh treats like bara brith and Welsh cakes, cater to those with a sweet tooth. The café prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally.

This commitment to local produce ensures fresh and high-quality meals for their customers.

With ample parking, disabled access, and baby-changing facilities, the Honey Café is designed to accommodate all visitors. While dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, the indoor space remains pet-free.

Operating from 9 am to 4 pm, Thursday to Monday, the café offers both dine-in and takeaway services, making it a convenient stop for travellers and locals alike

Hopes of Longtown is a family-run, award-winning independent village store and Post Office nestled at the foot of the Black Mountains in Herefordshire.

The shop offers a wide range of services to both the local and wider community, including a same-day personal shopper service.

The store boasts a vast selection of produce and household goods, making it a convenient stop whether you’re doing a big shop or just topping up essentials.

Their inventory includes specialty and regional products, local wines and ciders, cheeses, yoghurts, ice cream, homemade cakes, Fairtrade items, gluten-free products, and more, all under one distinctive arched roof. If a particular item isn’t in stock, the friendly staff are more than willing to assist in sourcing it. With regular deliveries from a network of local suppliers, the store ensures a consistent variety of fresh and frozen foods, as well as unique ingredients from local specialists.

In addition to the store, Hopes of Longtown operates a Post Office, providing essential mailing and banking services to the community.

For those looking to extend their stay, they offer a Farmhouse campsite just a few yards from the shop, providing comfortable accommodations for visitors exploring the area.

Longtown itself is a historic village featuring a 12th-century castle and a village green, perfect for picnics. The main church is in nearby Clodock, with other beautiful spiritual sites in the surrounding villages. The village is conveniently located approximately 30 minutes from Abergavenny and Hay-on-Wye, and about 40 minutes from Hereford and Crickhowell, making it an ideal base for exploring the region

Hopes of Longtown is open seven days a week, with shop hours from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm on weekdays, extended hours on Thursdays until 7:00 pm, and varying hours on weekends. The Post Office operates from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm on weekdays and has limited hours on Saturdays.

Hay Market Day, a vibrant local market with a rich history spanning over 700 years, is held every Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm in the centre of Hay-on-Wye.

The market features over 40 independent traders offering a diverse range of products, including artisan bread, fresh fruit and vegetables, hot food, meat and game, fish, organic produce, jewellery, pies and savouries, locally roasted coffee, cards and gifts, plants and cut flowers, cakes, pastries and treats, antiques, vintage items, cheese and deli products, and music and films.

Hay Market Day serves as a social hub of commerce and community, providing a place for small producers, artisan makers, and independent traders to showcase their wares.

The market is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering an opportunity to connect with those who grow, bake, brew, make, and gather the food and items that enrich daily life.

In addition to the regular Thursday markets, special events and markets are held throughout the year, including during the Hay Festival Winter Weekend and the Hay Christmas Fayre.

For the latest updates and a weekly list of traders, follow @haymarketsltd on Instagram and Facebook.

Make Thursday your Hay Market Day and experience the best in local produce, freshly made food and drink, handmade artisan items, vintage finds, plants, and more in the heart of Hay-on-Wye.

Nestled at the foot of the renowned waterfalls in Pontneddfechan, Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, The Angel Inn is a traditional country pub that warmly welcomes visitors seven days a week.

Known for its delicious home-cooked food, the pub offers a diverse menu catering to vegans, vegetarians, and meat-lovers alike. A special doggy menu ensures that canine companions are also well catered for.

The Angel Inn prides itself on being dog-friendly and accommodating to guests with muddy boots, making it an ideal stop for hikers exploring the nearby waterfall trails. The outdoor seating area provides a pleasant spot to relax, and ample parking is available for customers. Inside, patrons can enjoy a selection of cask ales in a cosy atmosphere adorned with traditional décor, including tankards hanging from the ceiling.

In addition to it’s food offerings, The Angel Inn hosts regular events to engage the local community and visitors.

Weekly quiz nights challenge patrons’ knowledge in a fun and friendly setting, while monthly games nights offer an opportunity for socialising and entertainment.

These events contribute to the pub’s reputation as a welcoming and lively hub in the area.

Whether you’re concluding a day of hiking, seeking a hearty meal, or looking to participate in local events, The Angel Inn provides a hospitable environment that captures the charm of a traditional Welsh country pub.

Discover Wales’s coal mining heritage at the award-winning Big Pit National Coal Museum, a fascinating and interactive experience in the heart of South Wales. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the lives of miners and the industry that once powered a nation.

Big Pit, a former working coal mine that employed over 1,300 workers in its prime, now invites visitors to explore its history. The highlight is the world-famous underground tour, led by former miners. Descend into the depths and experience the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of a real coal mine, gaining a living, breathing understanding of life at the coal face.

Prefer to stay above ground? The museum offers engaging alternatives, including the Mining Galleries, a virtual tour of a modern coal mine. The Pithead Baths exhibition, known for it’s warm storytelling, brings the personal stories of miners to life, exploring their experiences both at work and home. Voted Wales’s Favourite National Treasure, this exhibit is both moving and entertaining.

Don’t miss the Lamp Room, Blacksmith’s Forge, Fan House, and Explosives Magazine, where you can learn about the ingenuity and safety measures of the mining industry.

Big Pit hosts a variety of activities and events throughout the year, offering something for everyone. Open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm, with adjusted hours in December and January. Entry is free, with a small parking fee.

Immerse yourself in this unforgettable journey into Wales’s industrial past, an experience suitable for all ages.

Our café serves a selection of hot and cold drinks, cakes and snacks.

Please note that the museum café closes at 3pm. The Museum shop will be open during your visit. You are welcome to bring a picnic , while there’s nowhere to eat these within the museum, there are benches outside which make for a nice spot.