A relaxing and comfortable bed & breakfast and restaurant situated in the historic book town of Hay-On-Wye. The Lions Gate once guarded the historic Hay-On-Wye castle and is home to this 17th Century Inn. Steeped in history and myth it is reputed that Oliver Cromwell stayed at The Old Black Lion whilst the round-heads besieged Hay Castle.Located on aptly named Lion Street in Hay-on-Wye this mixture of olde-worlde charm and new Century finesse in this Grade II listed building boasts award winning food with an ambiance and service to match.
Services
If you would like to book a room with us during the Hay Festival next year, please fill out the details below. Due to the volume of requests we won't be able to respond to each request individually, therefore if you don't hear from us by the end of June, this unfortunatley means we don't have availability.
The Old Black Lion Inn is privately owned and personally managed by proprietors Gill & James Walton who look forward to welcoming you as their guest. Hay-on-Wye is within the Brecon Beacons National Park with some of the most stunning scenery in Wales. It is an international destination for bibliophiles, with over twenty fascinating bookshops to browse, many selling specialist and collectable books. The town also boasts many boutique independent shops and cafes and what must be one of the most luxurious small cinemas in the country.
Under the watchful eye of our Head Chef, Mark Turton, our talented team put together a daily range of delicious dishes. The ingredients we use are always seasonal and where ever we can are locally sourced. If you have any questions about food ingredients we are able to provide sources and information on allergens to allow informed choices to be made for those with specialised dietary requirements.
In our bar you can choose from our carefully selected wine list or opt for one of our refreshing cask ales from local breweries like Wye Valley or Evans Evans. We also serve local cider and quality lagers chilled and ready to quench your thirst. Whatever you choose to eat, we've got the perfect wine to accompany your meal too.
Reviews (10)
Tom Price
Jun 07, 2022
My experience here was very positive. Having grown up in Hay and now a frequent visitor, I'm familiar with its eating and drinking establishments, and I must say the new guy, James, at the OBL has done a great job taking over and improving the place. The service from Jo, especially, was also very friendly and professional. The food and the prices are bang on. I had the cheeseburger which come with fries AND salad, and it was delicious. All round we had a lovely lunch meal here and I would definitely recommend it.
Catherine Lyth
Jun 07, 2022
Rebecca Tween
May 31, 2022
James and the team were absolutely amazing. We had a table for six. The service was attentive and the food outstanding. Everyone in the party found something on the menu to cater for their taste. The locally sourced asparagus was delicious and I would recommend the souffle. We will most definitely return. Five stars.
Jo Hewish
May 17, 2022
The room we stayed in was lovely, very clean. Comfortable beds and beautifully clean and modern en-suite. Dinner and breakfast was amazing. The quality of the food was fantastic, small menu but everything cooked to perfection. Staff could not do enough to help you with any requests you may have. All staff very friendly. Highly recommended.
Bizi Moz
May 01, 2022
We called in the Old Black Lion whilst visiting Hay on Wye on a Saturday and we're glad we did. Our dog was welcome and made a fuss of and the staff were friendly and helpful. A good choice of food available for lunch from sandwiches to full a la carte My wife and I had sandwiches which were on home made bread and accompanied with a lovely salad with dressing and chips. Our son had seafood tagliatelle which was delicious and even had an oyster on top. Lovely food, friendly staff and a nice atmosphere, highly recommended.
Daniel Carroll
Apr 19, 2022
I spent 5 nights here, attempting to recover from an injury I picked up whilst hiking, and my hosts, and the staff could not have been more welcoming, or helpful. The owner even offered to drive me to see the local GP. The food was excellent, though a little out of my usual budget, I would recommend it to potential customers, and I would eat there again on a special occasion.
I stayed in two rooms during my visit, both were clean, and comfortable. There was a minor issue with both my showers leaking, which I suspect is down to limescale damaging the rubber seals. I only brought it up with the owner, prior to checking out, so he had no chance to remedy the issue, before I left. The Old Black Lion is a place that I would happily stay in again.
I stayed in two rooms during my visit, both were clean, and comfortable. There was a minor issue with both my showers leaking, which I suspect is down to limescale damaging the rubber seals. I only brought it up with the owner, prior to checking out, so he had no chance to remedy the issue, before I left. The Old Black Lion is a place that I would happily stay in again.
Paul Cross
Apr 06, 2022
Stayed for one night in a superior room, spacious, clean, comfy bed and quiet. Food was fantastic as was the service, friendly and helpful. The only small thing that let it down was the Ensuite, it was clean and functional but I feel it could do with a revamp, although I fully understand times have been difficult for the leisure industry lately. Would recommend.
Karen Skinner
Mar 02, 2022
Our first visit, with friends who had been before. Their recommendation was fully justified - the food was lovely, house wine was very good and our dog was welcome (always high on our list of priorities!). The staff were very patient as we chatted over lunch and did not rush us. Nicest toilets I have seen in a pub for a long time too. We would happily visit again to try something else from the menu!
David Glover-Wright
Mar 02, 2022
A historical traditional timber framed inn with character, a warm welcome and it's very own spectral guardians! Great food, a live jazz trio on a Friday night and friendly staff. We enjoyed our stay but unfortunately met neither Mr Cromwell (who stayed there idling his time away with a cheeky pint of Butty Bach whilst his forces laid siege to the nearby castle) or the Grey Lady who reputedly checks that guests are behaving themselves in the delightful rooms! Thoroughly recommended, but do mind your head!
Jayne Darling
Dec 09, 2021
Absolutely fantastic. The venue, the rooms and the food are simply brilliant. James, Gillian and the team are so welcoming and friendly, it's simply magical especially as Christmas. Chef is excellent - the food was so good and so reasonable for the quality. If you're in the area you must check it out
