"Amazing lamb on Friday - perfectly pink and flavoursome."
Christina T from United States
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"I had the chuck pie which was absolutely delicious, every mouthful a pleasure!"
Gabrielle from United Kingdom
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"Cosy and homely but well looked after, and with very friendly staff."
Kaz from United Kingdom
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Dining
The Old Black Lion holds 2 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence and won the Good Food Award Gold Seal for 2024. The chef uses exclusively local ingredients across a menu that includes dishes like Pig Cheek & Seared Scallop and Sea trout Wellington. Guests can also dine outdoors in the Marquee, which offers views over the surrounding countryside.
Entertainment
Every Friday night, the hotel hosts live jazz performances in the bar, creating a lively yet conversation-friendly atmosphere. The bar also runs a regular quiz night, which features a themed curry dinner as part of the evening. Curry and quiz nights are open to both residents and non-residents.
Accommodation
The hotel offers rooms in the main 17th-century building and a separate Coach House annex, each with carpeted floors and en suite bathrooms. The Cromwell Suite includes a separate sitting area with views of rolling fields and is accessed via steep stairs and low beams - guests should note the wooden beams that are typical of the period. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Location & Parking
The Old Black Lion sits a few minutes' walk from Hay-On-Wye's town centre, bookshops, and literary locations. It provides free on-site parking for residents, a rare convenience in this popular tourist town. The hotel is also a short drive from Brecon Beacons National Park, making it a base for hikers and outdoor activity seekers.
Pet-Friendly Policy
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at the hotel, with designated areas like the Lion's Snug (the boot bar) for dining with pets. Guests staying with a dog can enjoy the same award-winning food and live jazz entertainment as other diners. The hotel's location near walking trails and the surrounding countryside makes it suitable for guests traveling with their pets.
Highlights
Dining: 2 AA Rosettes restaurant with Good Food Award Gold Seal 2024
Entertainment: Live jazz every Friday and quiz nights
Accommodation: Historic 17th-century rooms including the Cromwell Suite
Location: 5-minute walk to Hay-On-Wye centre, free parking
Pet policy: Dogs welcome in the Lion's Snug
“This inn in Hay-on-Wye feels like a discovery, especially with the food being a step above typical pub fare and the staff striking a fine balance between professionalism and genuine warmth. Its location is undeniably a strong point for exploring, and the comfortable rooms, coupled with local brews, make for a truly satisfying stay. It's clear the team here works hard to ensure guests are well looked after, from delicious breakfasts to unexpected live music.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at 4shotels
Select your room type
The Old Black Lion offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Single Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Superior Double Room
2 persons
20 m²
1 Double bed
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Shower
room details
Double Room
2 persons
18 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
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Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Old Black Lion offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Housekeeping
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Children
Cots
Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
Sun terrace
Garden area
Room features
Heating
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
At The Old Black Lion, onsite dining options offer a delightful blend of traditional fare and innovative seasonal menus crafted by Head Chef Mark Turton. Guests can savor meals prepared from scratch using fresh, local ingredients in a warm and inviting atmosphere that caters to families and couples alike.
Restaurant
Seasonal, Locally Sourced
Ambiance
Family-friendly and romantic, with a cozy indoor setting perfect for intimate dinners or family gatherings.
Key Offerings
An award-winning lunch and dinner menu featuring vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Signature dishes highlight fresh, locally sourced produce paired with carefully selected wines.
Reservation
Reservations recommended, please use the website or phone to book a table.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Bar/Lounge
Casual Dining
Ambiance
A relaxed, inviting space ideal for unwinding with friends or enjoying a quiet drink.
Key Offerings
A selection of refreshing cask ales from local breweries like Wye Valley or Evans Evans, complemented by light bites and snacks.
Reservation
No reservations needed.
Open during bar hours, typically throughout the day until late night.
The Old Black Lion Location
Lion Street, Hay-On-Wye, true,
Explore Hay-On-Wye
Explore Hay-On-Wye
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Hay Castle
6 minutes' walk
Historic castle with beautiful gardens and rich history, often hosting community events and exhibitions.
Brook Street Pottery & Gallery
9 minutes' walk
Local pottery studio featuring unique artworks and pottery classes; a perfect spot for art lovers.
Clifford Castle
5 minutes' drive
Ruins of a medieval castle offering stunning river views and a serene picnic spot for families.
St Mary's Church
10 minutes' walk
Gothic church known for its beautiful stained glass and tranquil atmosphere, often a venue for local concerts.
Discover the local attractions near The Old Black Lion
Experience the nearby landmarks that offer unique experiences near Old Black Lion Hay On Wye
Perfect for history enthusiasts: Hay Castle
Ideal for nature lovers seeking a scenic retreat: The Warren
Great for art lovers looking to appreciate local craftsmanship: Brook Street Pottery & Gallery
Well suited for those interested in historical architecture: St Mary's Church
Best for picturesque views and exploring medieval ruins: Clifford Castle
Paddles and Pedals Canoe Hire
15 minutes' walk
Canoe and bike rentals available for exploring the scenic Wye River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Warren
16 minutes' walk
A tranquil riverside park ideal for picnicking, walking, or relaxing by the riverbank with family.
Tomatitos Tapas Bar
3 minutes' walk
Charming tapas spot serving a variety of Spanish dishes; vibrant atmosphere perfect for sharing meals.
Chapters Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
A cozy bistro offering locally sourced dishes with vegetarian options; excellent reviews for its warm ambiance.
Oscars Bistro
3 minutes' walk
European cuisine with a contemporary touch and a focus on seasonal ingredients; great for casual dining.
Discover dining options near The Old Black Lion
Check out the best dining options that provide diverse culinary experiences near Old Black Lion Hay On Wye
Great for a relaxed meal amidst books: Richard Booth s Bookshop Cafe
Ideal for enjoying shared plates with friends: Tomatitos Tapas Bar
Perfect for casual dining with artisanal pizza: Origin Pizza
Suited for enjoying local specialties in a cozy atmosphere: Eve's
Well suited for traditional meals in a charming setting: The Granary
The Lion Street Gallery
3 minutes' walk
Dynamic art gallery showcasing local artists; hosts regular exhibitions and community art events suitable for all ages.
Hay Conservative Club
2 minutes' walk
A friendly venue for live music and quiz nights; family-friendly events catering to various age groups often scheduled.
Getting around
City Centre
Hay-On-Wye 4 min · 300 m
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO) 124 min · 82.5 km
Swansea (SWS) 157 min · 104.6 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:30-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Old Black Lion from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 486 verified reviews
8.7 /10
Great
90 %
Recommend
Breakfast
7.5/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free WiFi
8.5/10
Location
9.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.0/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
8.4/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Comfortable rooms
Central location
Cons
Housekeeping issues
Dated furnishings
Parking charges
Guest reviews
based on 366 reviews
4.5/5
based on 720 reviews
8.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Old Black Lion
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Old Black Lion?
Check-in is from 14:30 and check-out is by 10:30.
What is the closest attraction to The Old Black Lion?
The hotel is located just 0.5 km from Hay Castle and The Lion Street Gallery.
Is there parking available at The Old Black Lion?
Free on-site parking is available for guests.
What dining options are available at The Old Black Lion?
The hotel features an award-winning restaurant with an à la carte menu and a bar/lounge.
What amenities are available in the rooms at The Old Black Lion?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee making facilities.
How far is The Old Black Lion from the nearest bus stop?
The Lower Mead bus stop is located 0.5 km from the hotel.
What are some nearby restaurants to The Old Black Lion?
Nearby dining options include Richard Booth's Bookshop Cafe, Tomatitos Tapas Bar, and Origin Pizza, all within 0.5 km.
Does The Old Black Lion offer a breakfast option?
Guests can order a freshly cooked breakfast for £10 per person, using locally sourced produce.
What unique features does The Old Black Lion have?
The hotel features live jazz performances every Friday night and a history that dates back to the 17th century.